CFS
Thursday, November 27, 2008 12:36By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a serious medical condition that can easily be overlooked because it mimics so many other disorders. According to the CDC–centers for disease control, at least one million Americans suffer with CFS, yet only 20% have been diagnosed. Chronic fatigue may be so profound and debilitating that it can affect work, school and family life. Chronic fatigue can be accompanied by other symptoms such as problems with memory or concentration, muscle and joint pain, headaches, and sore throat, only to name a few. CFS is a true medical diagnsosis that simply isn’t in your head. If you experience severe fatigue plus any other symptoms see your health care professional. There is treatment to help improve the quality of life for people with CFS; from treating the specific symptoms to nutritional and alternative therapies.
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Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA, is an award-winning journalist, media broadcaster, speaker, medical blogger, consultant, media trainer, and health expert. She is creator, executive producer and host of Health in 30® Radio Show. Barbara is a registered nurse active on the front lines of health care: She is a head nurse at a level 2 trauma center and covers multiple medical and surgical units, critical care, oncology, cardiology and step-down units, the psychiatric in-patient unit and the Women’s and Children’s units, pediatric ER and Barbara has many years experience covering the main emergency room. Her clinical experience ranges from oncology to general medicine and surgery.
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