Serotonin Imbalance and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

The disorder known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that makes even normal daily activities become an exhaustive process. While the origins of chronic fatigue syndrome are unknown, the symptoms seem to be linked to stress, illnesses with long-term effects, and poor dietary habits. While each individual case is different, the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome can vary in length from a few years, to even several years before a patient will go into remission.

Causes of Negative Effects for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Individuals feeling the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome should check with their doctor to determine the level of their condition's severity. A review of a person's medical history, tests and physical examinations can determine what steps will need to be taken to restore a person's normal body performance. During the course of the examination, the doctor may check to see if the levels of serotonin in the body are functioning properly.

The Necessity of Serotonin

Serotonin is synthesized from the amino acid typtophan and is an important neurotransmitter (or brain chemical) that is connected to vasoconstriction, mood, body temperature, sleep, inhibition, and other important vital functions. Serotonin is also a peripheral signal mediator. It can be found extensively in the human gastrointestinal tract, and is the major storage place for platelets in the blood stream. Since serotonin is related to moods, it is susceptible to the symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.

The Effects of a Serotonin Imbalance

Lower levels of serotonin can lead to an increase in aggressive and angry behaviors, such as clinical depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Those individuals feeling a serotonin imbalance can find increased relief through taking doses of vitamin B6. Because of the strong personality shifts that are caused by the effects of serotonin imbalance, it can be especially difficult for those dealing with chronic fatigue syndrome.

The Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The effects of chronic fatigue syndrome have various symptoms which lead to problems with physical energy and their state of mind. Several symptoms are comparable to the effects of a flu-like state. The effects can range from:

• Fatigue: The feeling of being tired and run down, even after a person has recovered from illness.
• Cognitive difficulty: Reported problems with long-term memory, and potential difficulties saying certain words during conversation.
• Postexertional fatigue: Excessive tiredness after activities that were once not tiring.
• Fatigue after sleep: The feeling of not being "refreshed" after getting rest.
• Depression: Due to the result of difficulties in a patient's personal life.
• Flu-like symptoms: Head and muscle aches, sore throat, and mild fever.

Getting Help for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

While the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome can be debilitating throughout a normal day's activities, addressing the issue and taking proper care of the related symptoms can reduce the effects and make them more manageable. As with any physical concern, make sure to consult with a doctor to ensure the best course of remedy.

Sources: http://blog.phobias-help.com/blog/search/serotonin+imbalance

http://www.cdc.gov/cfs/cfsbasicfacts.htm

http://www.healthandage.com/html/res/com/ConsConditions/ChronicFatigueSyndromecc.html

Photo Credit: Crashmaster007

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