Chronic pain and chronic fatigue syndrome often co-exist, wreaking a double whammy for a person suffering from the condition, experts here on Thursday explained how to manage both. Chronic pain and fatigue are common health problems that affect millions of people in India. Chronic pain refers to any type of persistent pain that lasts longer than three months, while chronic fatigue is a condition characterized by long-term fatigue and low energy levels with day-to-day activities.
Studies have reported that up to 70 percent of people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) also suffer from chronic pain. On the other hand, individuals with chronic pain are also more likely to experience fatigue and other symptoms associated with CFS.
“Patients dealing with CFS experience a range of symptoms, including muscle aches, joint pain, headaches, poor memory and concentration, and many other symptoms. Muscle and joint pain are common CFS symptoms because the body is unable to cope with fatigue. And there is a lack of energy,” Dr Vivek Mahajan, Orthopedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, told IANS.
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“The exact causes of chronic fatigue are not fully understood, but a number of factors that may exacerbate the condition include abnormalities in the immune system or nervous system: autoimmune disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, chronic infections, neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, hormonal imbalance, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and insomnia as well as sleep disorders such as depression and anxiety,” Dr (Major) Pankaj N. Surange, CEO & MD, IPSC India: Pain & Spine Hospital said.
“A history of trauma or stress, especially childhood abuse, is a major risk factor for the co-occurrence of chronic fatigue and chronic pain in people in later years of life,” said Dr. Surange.
She added that women are more susceptible to suffering from both the conditions as compared to men. Lifestyle factors such as poor sleep, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diet can also contribute to the development of both conditions in a person.
While not life-threatening, the conditions can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and affect the ability to perform daily activities. Dr. Mahajan said there is no cure for CFS, but there are ways to manage symptoms, including pain relief. Treatment for CFS usually involves lifestyle changes, such as getting enough rest, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet.
“Practicing gentle exercises such as yoga, tai chi, avoiding excessive exertion; Warm baths and showers, heat therapy such as heating pads; Cold therapy; Pain medication; Consuming nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D.” dosage; getting enough rest and sleep can help manage the pain,” said the doctor.
“Treatment options for chronic fatigue and chronic pain depend on the underlying cause of the condition and the individual’s specific symptoms,” Dr Surange told IANS.
“For chronic fatigue, treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), graded exercise therapy, and drug management for symptoms such as pain, depression, and sleep disturbances. For chronic pain, treatment options include physical therapy, May include occupational therapy and medication management,” he added.