For the thousands of individuals who currently suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), the causes of this mysterious illness remain a mystery. Reputable medical institutions, including the Centers for Disease Control have launched research efforts into discovering the reasons why some individuals contract CFS and what can be done to alleviate the symptoms.
Originally termed “yuppie flu” by the media, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome was thought to be caused by the Epstein Barr virus, or mononucleosis. In the late 1980’s, it appeared that the only individuals who suffered from yuppie flu were the young, upwardly mobile, urban professionals who, because of their busy lifestyles, of course were tired! With further investigation, medical professionals discovered that many other individuals were suffering from the unexplained symptoms of this illness. Even though the medical community has published studies that bolster the reality of this illness, sufferers continue to find that the “yuppie flu” designation still prevails.
Many individuals who suffer from CFS have reported that they became ill with a virus before later noticing the symptoms now attributed to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Researchers now believe that a virus, although not responsible for CFS, may cause damage to the neurological system of the individual who later suffers from symptoms of CFS.
During the course of what may well be a relatively harmless virus, areas of the brain may sustain damage which then results in the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. For some reason, this damage may be permanent or transient – or at least the symptoms caused by the damage may be. Some individuals who suffer from CFS find that their symptoms may lessen or completely disappear in time, and still others find that they may experience a “remission” of sorts, only to have the symptoms reappear at a later time.
This “Brain Injury” theory is the most prevalent at this time and appears to provide the most rational explanation for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome to date. As the control center of the body, the brain, when unable to function normally, can cause a host of mysterious symptoms that are unexplained by any known medical illness. Further research into the causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome should provide the answers to why some individuals suffer from this brain injury and others do not.
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