Date sent:      	Sat, 23 Mar 2002 

Source: http://www.bmrc.miami.edu/research/niaid/project2.asp

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Center for Multidisciplinary Studies of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) 
Pathogenesis

Nancy Klimas, M.D., Director

Brochure

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome  

Behavioral Medicine Research Center
University of Miami

Non-Pharmacologic Therapy

Physical Activity

In general, physicians advise patients with CFS to pace themselves 
carefully and encourage them to avoid unusual physical or emotional 
stress. A regular, manageable daily routine helps avoid the "push- crash" 
phenomenon characterized by overexertion during periods of better 
health, followed by a relapse of symptoms perhaps initiated by the 
excessive activity. Although patients should be as active as possible, 
clinicians may need to explain the disorder to employers and family 
members, advising them to make allowances as possible. Modest regular 
exercise to avoid de-conditioning is important  and should be supervised 
by a physician or physical therapist.

Physical Activities and Therapy

Non-pharmacologic therapies sometimes used by CFS patients in clude 
acupuncture, aquatic therapy, chiropractic, light exercise, massage, 
self-hypnosis, stretching, tai chi, therapeutic touch, and yoga. 

Psychotherapy and Supportive Counseling

Certain psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy, have 
shown promise for facilitating patient coping and for alleviating some of 
the distress associated with CFS. In addition, any chronic illness can 
affect the patient caregivers and family. In such instances, family 
therapy may foster good communication and reduce the adverse impact 
of CFS on the family.


What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a disabling condition characterized by 
debilitating fatigue that lasts for greater than 6 months and is not 
attributable to knownclinical conditions. CFS can reduce the activity 
level of a previously healthy person by 50%, and has been accompanied 
by flu like symptoms (e. g., pharyngitis, adenopathy, low grade fever, 
myalgia, arthralgia, headache) and neuropsychological manifestations (e. 
g., difficulty concentrating, exercise intolerance, and sleep disturbances), 
as well as immunologic dysfunction. The possible precipitating events 
include infections, and exposure to toxins. But recent evidence indicates 
that some persons with CFS may have decreased red blood cell volume. 
Because the red blood cell delivers oxygen and blood sugars to the body,
a decreased red blood cell volume may result in fatigue and other CFS 
symptoms.