The goal of a CFS or ME treatment is to manage the symptoms, and the treatment will be based on what symptoms you are experiencing. Some solutions that would surely help include diagnosing the disease early, medication compliance, and lifestyle modifications.
This condition can be long-term, but symptoms will worsen in the long run for most people. There’s also a higher chance that some people may achieve a full recovery and regain their energy to do their regular activities. However, others can still experience symptoms of CFS as it gets worse.
Treatment Plans
There are no standard treatment guidelines for everyone with CFS or ME, but there are treatment options that your GP can recommend. According to NICE, the patient’s treatment plan should be based on the patient’s current symptoms.
Before commencing with your treatment, your GP should discuss your treatment options and elaborate on the risks and benefits of your treatment plan. Your doctor must work with you to devise your treatment plan and consider your circumstances and preferences.
Specialist Treatments
Here are some specialist treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome:
Exercise Therapy (Graded)
It is an organised exercise programme which aims to slowly increase your energy to perform physical activity. This therapy includes exercises that can increase heart rate like walking or swimming. The programme will be controlled based on your physical capabilities.
Behavioural Therapy (Cognitive)
This therapy is for patients who are experiencing mild to moderate CFS or ME. It is a treatment where you can express yourself to a specialist through talking to help you cope with CFS. Its purpose is to modify your thought process and behavior towards CFS diagnosis, your symptoms, and your life with CFS.
Medicine
The medication is only for symptom relief as there’s no medicine to address CFS itself directly. For instance, you can take pain relievers for headaches and joint or muscle pain.