Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

An Introduction for Patients and Caregivers

By (author) Naheed Ali

Publication date:

22 September 2015

Length of book:

270 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9781442226579

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition that causes persistent and debilitating tiredness. The condition has no obvious cause but persists for more than six months, and patients tend to avoid activity due to constant fatigue. A wide variety of causes are thought to contribute to the condition, while the relatively low disease prevalence and lack of diagnostic criteria has made it difficult to identify and diagnose CFS.

Here, Naheed Ali presents an overview of CFS, its causes, symptoms and outcomes, and the treatment options available to sufferers. He also includes information about lifestyle changes, preventative measures, and emotional and mental approaches to having the disorder. Readers will find here a ready resource for understanding CFS and the various ways of approaching it, and living well in spite of it.

Preface
Part I: Groundwork
1 Energy and the Human Body
2 History of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Part II: Clinical Picture
3 Causes and Risk Factors
4 Pathology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
5 Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
6 Role of the Family Physician, Internist and Neurologist
7 Role of the Hospital in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Part III: Many Faces
8 Fatigue and the Human Body
9 Viral, Neuropsychiatric, and Neuroendocrine Hypotheses

Part IV: Resolutions
10 Natural Approaches to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
11 Pharmacological Approaches to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
12 Addressing the Mind in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
13 Collective Efforts
14 Conclusion

Appendix A: CFS Related Links
Appendix B: CFS Research and Training
Appendix C: CFS and Related Organizations
Appendix D: Nationally Recognized CFS Clinics
Appendix E: For Further Reading

Ali, a TV talk-show guest and author of Understanding Pain (2015) and other guides for patients and caregivers focusing on lung cancer, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, obesity, arthritis, and diabetes, now presents an in-depth look at chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). . . . Seriously comprehensive, this volume covers the basics (including CFS naming issues), the clinical picture, CFS’ many faces, and various approaches toward resolution. The back matter includes a glossary; five appendixes, from clinics to further reading; copious endnotes; and a bibliography. Best for collections strong on health sciences.