Chronic Fatigue

Dear Dr. Meletis,

I have been a caregiver for about 30 years. I am 73. I care for my older sister. Though I enjoyed relatively good health most of my life, I became very ill in 2004, and was finally diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). After three years of various treatments, I gradually improved and have been very normal for the past three years. What really helped me was the constant care of a fine homeopathic practitioner who also used muscle testing. She died suddenly in August. Soon thereafter we lost another family member. My sister has worsened and I have developed my old CFS symptoms, which are frightening. My nervous system and brain seem very affected. I am endeavoring to improve by doing the following: Taking daily 3 Allay™, 2 CortiTrophin®, 1 L-Theanine and 1 Circutrol BP™ (for blood pressure). I am also taking a few homeopathy and herbal remedies for the adrenals, pituitary, emotions, etc.

I normally have good blood pressure, but at the onset of this illness it was going very high. I am hoping that the Circutrol BP is keeping it in the zone, as it increases my anxiety to continually check my blood pressure. I am afraid of blood pressure medication in my CFS condition. I do take lorazepam (.5 mg) for sleep and my nerves. It was prescribed in my previous bout with CFS, and I have continued taking it. Also Melatonin and magnesium cotrate for sleep. I would appreciate any suggestions you would have as to how I can improve my present health. Thank you for considering my particular case.

Sincerely,

Ms. Z.

Dear Ms. Z.,

It sounds like you have spent much time and effort taking care of family members. This level of care can be very taxing on the mind and body, with long-term consequences to overall health. Working very closely with your medical provider is essential. The high blood pressure you are reporting can be a source of your anxiety and vice versa. It can be a very viscous cycle that needs to be carefully monitored both at home a couple times a day at least and also via your primary care provider. If by chance you snore at night, you will also want to have your doctor screen you for sleep apnea as well.

As you know, as suggested by the supplements you are taking, adrenal health is vitally important for handling stress. If you have not had your cortisol and DHEA levels measured this would be a strong consideration. Your doctor can order these, and they are also available here as an Adrenal Function Panel. If you have not had your thyroid checked as well, this would be important. Over the years I have observed that adrenal/thyroid imbalances often occur together.

Sincerely,

Chris D. Meletis, ND