Recovering from post-viral fatigue
I caught something similar to glandular fever two years ago, struggled through college to complete my degree, but am still suffering from post-viral fatigue. My recovery is anything but steady. I've tried homeopathy. I'm taking echinacea and eating a healthy, whole-food diet, drinking lots of water, and taking gentle exercise most days. The exhaustion is getting me down and I need to be able to get on with my life.
There are an estimated 250,000 people with post-viral/chronic fatigue syndrome in the UK. Some people with chronic fatigue respond to antidepressant drugs, which affect the level of certain chemicals in the brain, reduce muscle discomfort and improve sleep. Your doctor can advise on whether or not these are likely to help you. However, people with chronic fatigue may be more susceptible to side effects of antidepressants, so they are usually given initially in low doses.
A more natural alternative is either St John's Wort or 5-HTP, both of which can help to raise a low mood, reduce anxiety and improve sleep (check with a pharmacist for possible interactions if you are on any prescribed medications).
A good multivitamin and mineral supplement may help, together with omega-3 fish oils and an adaptogen herb such as Siberian ginseng. Co-enzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance that is essential for oxygen uptake and production of energy in cells. Supplements can improve fatigue but it usually takes three weeks and occasionally up to three months before energy levels a noticeable increase.
A type of treatment known as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) often helps. This trains you to alter the way you think so your coping skills are strengthened, and negative thoughts are changed. It takes time, but it trains you to put up with your symptoms better and to overcome them so your level of activity increases. It also helps to keep a daily diary of your activities and to set yourself daily routines. Your doctor can refer you for therapy.
For more information, contact the ME Association helpline on: 01280 816115
A more natural alternative is either St John's Wort or 5-HTP, both of which can help to raise a low mood, reduce anxiety and improve sleep (check with a pharmacist for possible interactions if you are on any prescribed medications).
A good multivitamin and mineral supplement may help, together with omega-3 fish oils and an adaptogen herb such as Siberian ginseng. Co-enzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance that is essential for oxygen uptake and production of energy in cells. Supplements can improve fatigue but it usually takes three weeks and occasionally up to three months before energy levels a noticeable increase.
A type of treatment known as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) often helps. This trains you to alter the way you think so your coping skills are strengthened, and negative thoughts are changed. It takes time, but it trains you to put up with your symptoms better and to overcome them so your level of activity increases. It also helps to keep a daily diary of your activities and to set yourself daily routines. Your doctor can refer you for therapy.
For more information, contact the ME Association helpline on: 01280 816115
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