Beat Chronic Fatigue: Top Natural Remedies Revealed

Coconut Oil

5 User Reviews
5 star (5) 
  100%

Posted by David (Memphis, TN) on 11/29/2006
★★★★★

I have been taking coconut oil for five or six years now. About five years ago, my daughter,who was in college at the time, came down with mononucleosis. I overnighted her a bottle of monolaurin, the main ingredient of lauric acid, which is only found in any quantity in coconut oil and human milk. My daughter was diagnosed on a Tuesday, she got the monolaurin on Wednesday and on Friday, nine days later she had no symptoms and quit taking it. The following Monday (that's 13 days post diagnosis) she had lab work done and was completely normal. Other dorm-mates of hers had mono for months. Coconut oil, lauric acid and monolaurin supposedly lise the lipid envelopes of lipid viruses and bacteria.

Most colds are caused by lipid enveloped viruses as are a number of major viral infections.

Just last Saturday, a friend of mine called to tell me he had a horrible cold and had made an appointment to see and ENT physician on Monday. I told him to take three tablespoons of coconut oil. When I saw him on Monday, he was obviously fine. He told me he had taken two tablespoons on Saturday and Sunday and was fine on Monday so he cancelled his doctor's appointment.

I take it all the time but every now and then I run out. Usually I will get sick when I do. Then I go get some more. It is particularly effective for sinus infections. I just snort some into my sinus cavities. Most people are amazed when I prescribe it and it works. But I have seen it happen so many times now, I just expect it to work.

Replied by Ted
(Bangkok, Thailand)
391 posts
★★★★★

Dear David: Monolaurin (or coconut oil, lauric acid component) is well-known against viruses, which is the main component of coconut oil, however other oils are also well known against bacteria too. A derivative of lauric acid, where they convert this to sodium lauryl sulfate, even in tiny amounts (micromolar concentration) are well-known to kill HIV AIDS, and a great many other viruses with a vengeance. Although I don't usually recommend this, but perhaps give you a historical backdrop.

Of course, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) today are not generally use in many products and there is a lot of effort to remove this product out of the market and replace with a safer, albeit less effective virus killer in many shampoo products with sodium laureth sulfate or sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) which has much less virus killing power then sodium lauryl sulfate.

I remember during the heddy days of San Francisco AIDS viruses outbreak, which occurred almost within months of some kind of free hepatitis vaccination to only sexually active gays, that some were actually cured by taking drops of shampoo at the time were using sodium lauryl sulfate a drop 3 or 4 times a day. There is also a lot of hell fire propaganda in U.S. posted in the internet against the use of SLS also, as well as soybeans (billions of Asians have been consuming soy for centuries and not even fermented at that, where I live, at least), against the use of coconut oil (high cholesterol was actually the hydrogenated form), and a host of other misinformation. It is my guess that some of the idea for AIDS protection and prevention where they use the SLS as both a spermicide and killing of viruses might came from those that were actually cured after taking the SLS internally.

There are other derivatives of coconut oil used by the industry often called tween 20 or tween 80 (polysorbate 20 - monolaurin and polysorbate 80 - monooleate) which is converted to a sulfactant form of laurins used as a preservative. That are also effective too, but the polysorbate 80 is particularly well known against treatment of hair loss due to its antifungal properties that prevent them, or possibly reduce the autoimmuninty on the hair roots thus stopping the hair loss. There are other oils too such as sunflower oil, olive oil that does kill many organisms too, although they are more well known to kill bacteria.

It must be remembered that monolaurin (lauric acid coconut oil), are also helps herpes, genital herpes, virus, ulcers, candida utilis, etc.

In Asia, the coconut oil are such a common delicacy that we give little thought to using as a treatment, but they are also effective against fungus.

While I do believe that coconut oil is helpful in killing off the viruses, i still believe we catch cold because most people have a zinc deficiency and their body's pH are acidic for a wide range of conditions and therefore is the foundation. Zinc alone can kill herpes simplex viruses by 99.9% within hours. If I want a 100% kill, this is easy, just add magnesium chloride, use lavender oil, and tea tree oil. Of course coconut oil works, but for me lavender, tea tree oil, zinc, magnesium works the best in cases of topical application. Of course I usually add a bit of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (below 1%) to it to speed up the killing. If this is done right, and proper portions, my the herpes simplex dies completely within 1 day, with a maximum of 3 days. Last time one of my relative told me it keeps coming back even though the formula (zinc & magnesium only) despite it worked better than the meds medicine they prescribed, I told her if she is in a hurry just apply all of them (tea tree oil, lavender oil, zinc chloride, magnesium magnesium & a touch of SLS) and do that every 1-2 hour for the whole day. The herpes never came back and this has been about a month now. The major weakness of viruses is ALL the medium chain fatty acids, not just lauric acid. This includes caprylic acid, caproic acid found in palm kernel oil too.

The most difficult organism to kill, contrary to what Hollywood is saying (movies like Aeon flux, Ultraviolet, stormbreakers, just for this year 2006) is NOT the viruses. In practice it is actually the fungus and mycoplasma. In the event of nuclear holocaust the two surviving organism are the fungus and cockroaches. Cancer symptomatically are often close to viruses then they do with fungus.

Again the best way to treat the viruses that has the best results for me are pH akalizing and the zinc acetate - to be used as an antibiotic as well as mineral supplement. Coconut is used here as a dietary food source in cooking. Here at my home I used the oil for cooking to be coconut oil, instead of medicine, so it protects while you eat. Oleatic acid also have some protection too, so sometimes I might mixed olive oil to it too. Other oils or spices I used also have antifungal properties include clove, thyme, tea tree, lavender and oregano, just the same. However, pH and mineral (zinc, magnesium, chromium) remains the backbone whenever I get sick the others I just eat them regularly. The last time I got a cold was 3 years ago it last 2-3 days because I got careless with the diet, too much sugar and acidic pH in the urine! Oh yes, and I probably ran out of coconut oil!

Replied by Susan
(St. Mary's, Ga/USA)
09/14/2011

Dear Ted, Not sure when this article was posted, but reading your response on Coconut Oil and CFS and how it helps; you also discussed using magnesium chloride, lavender oil, tea tree oil and zinc as topical application for viruses. Could you go into more detail on how to combine and use, please.

Everything I have read about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and it's cousin diseases either point to a viral disease and/or Floride poisoning over years of internal and external body exposure. having lived with CFS now for 12 years and still developing more sypmtoms every year, I am now looking for alternative treatment/s to the classical MDs which are not working.

thank you, Susan H

Laura
(TX)
02/04/2021

I know when my CFS started, I had a particularly bad flu my freshman year in high school 64 years ago. I have been in and out of remission several times since then but know that I have to eat right and rest extra, and avoid stress, or it is going to get me down.


Cold Showers

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Bec B (Victoria) on 03/19/2006
★★★★★

Recently I have just started taking cold showers. Now after 3 months, my mood and health feel incredible! I'm addicted to cold showers, they feel so refreshing and relaxing, it feels like I'm under a waterfall. Before I started taking cold showers, I used to suffer from fatigue and after the first cold shower my mood and health feel 100%.

Replied by Lorica
(Indiana, US)
03/13/2015

Cold showers can maximally tax your adrenals. You may not feel it at once at all since there is a reserve, but over time that reserve can be used up if too many cold showers are done.

Replied by Timh
(KY)
03/14/2015
2063 posts

Thanks L for this observation as it does make good sense from a physiologic perspective.

Fortunately there are remedies to this loss of adrenal function. Raw Pituitary or Adrenal Glandulars are excellent for preserving these glands. 500mg Pantothenic Acid one or twice a week during the cold showers period helps. Adaptogenic herbs like Ginsing, Foti, Ashwanghanda help adrenals. Tyrosine is amino fuel for adrenaline.


Colloidal Silver

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Granny On The Go (Waco, Tx) on 12/30/2012
★★★★★

My CFS started when I was a freshman in high school, 1957! I had a really bad case of the flu. Although I finally got up and went back to school I still ran a low grade fever every day, My glands were swollen and painful, my throat sore, and I felt ill, all the time. I kept a sinus infection and bronchitis at least half of the time. It lasted 5 years that time. I relapsed a couple of years later after falling and hurting my back. It stayed with me that time until I was 38 and had myself tested for allergies. By that time I had Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, couldn't eat most foods, and was sensitive or "allergic" to most chemicals and medicines. After being treated for Candida I finally regained my health, at least to a degree. I was given a heart medication in November '06 that brought on a relapse. I hadn't been able to shake it this time no matter how much time I spent in bed or what health supplements I take (and I take a lot of them). Lol AND THEN I READ ABOUT COLLOIDAL SILVER IN EARTH CLINIC!! I was skeptical at first, and only used it in a mixture of salt water for my sinuses. That worked so well that I decided to take some by mouth. At first it didn't seem to do anything, but I was being very careful about the dosage, and I am well aquainted with Jarish Herxheimers so I didn't want to overwhelm my system with die off. But when I started taking a teaspoon or more of CS 3-4 times a day I began to get better. My sinus infection got better right away, so that my immune system wasn't fighting virus, and Candida, and infection at the same time. I finally decided to try my hand at making my own CS as I could see that I would never be able to afford enough of it commercially to ever get well. I checked Amazon and found some. 9999 silver, got a gallon of distilled water, went to the hardware store and got a lantern battery and 2 small alligator clips. I had some copper wire here at home. It is an extremely primative (simple) method that works fantastically. As I was able to take more CS, about 3 tablespoons a day, divided into 3-4 doses, I felt better and better. My health began to improve by leaps and bounds, as did my back pain, etc. ( I was taking Vicodin and pain shots in my spine) just to be pain free enough for the sleeping pills to work. But, still I lacked something. So I tried some L Lysine..... Which seemed to be the missing ingredient. Not only is my health greatly improved now, but the vitamins, minerals, herbs and other concoctations I take actully STARTED TO WORK!! Instead of seeing a small improvement from what I was taking, I had to cut back on some supplements because I was seeing the kinds of improvements that other people talk about when they start a supplement. I am not well, yet. But, I am better than I have been in years. I no longer take 3 different herb products, Vicodin, a muscle relaxer, 10 mg of Ambien (or more), melatonin, and liberal amounts of alcohol to make them work just to go to sleep at night, and throughout the night, because I was going to wake up several times a night and couldn't go back to sleep. You can't heal if you can't sleep! I am now sleeping through the night, without waking, (for the first time in years! ) by only taking some Valarian, Hops, and half a muscle relaxer. Since drinking very much alcohol always gave me an aversion to alcohol, I am pleased to be able to skip that item altogether. If you've never found yourself at 4 AM having never gone to sleep that night, and sitting in the kitchen with a double shot of 40 proof in a glass, telling yourself that if you throw it up you'll just have to do it again (big sigh and a grin)... Because it triggered a memory of my mom telling me the same thing when she gave me castor oil! Ha ha Now don't be fooled, I still have to take some Diflucan from time to time when I've over indulged in sweets. The holidays are all the more difficult when you think because you are better you can handle the wheat and sugar. I can, a little, but thinking about ever getting where I can eat the Standard American Diet (SAD) is insanity talking. And, if you eat wheat and sugar several days consectutively, you may relapse, like I do! Grrrr I realize that I must stay on my allergy diet to get well but am able to tolerate more of regular foods when I do eat off my diet for a meal. Other people may not have the immediate results I've mentioned. I have come to realize that the vitamin C palmitate I take and the Allergy Multi that I take are free of most common allergens and make a large difference in my health. The vitamin A that I take is vitamin A palmitate, I am allergic to carrots and fish. I take chelated minerals when I take separate minerals. I take CoQ 10, and L Carnitine for my heart problem (aortic valve). But, all the extra supplements I was taking were only helping keep me alive. I have been battling CFS for 55 years, years longer than CFS has been even recognized by some of the more astute medical establishment. It was called Nuerasthenia in the first edition of Adelle Davis' book, Let's Get Well, in the 50s. All that was recommended as a cure at that time was bed rest, preferably in a clinical setting, good nutritution, and importantly, no stress whatsoever. Oh yes, a little psychiatry to help you get over being a hysterical female. LOL I will be happy to have my email address published in EC if I can be of any help to those who have spent their life being called a hyperchodriac, drug addict, and just a plain old nut case, as I have. Contact me at ladylauranwaco(at)yahoo(dot)com. I cannot prescribe, or suggest treatments. But, I can tell you what has worked for me. I will be the first to tell you all bodies don't work the same. But, nobody should have to spend most of their lives sick and be degraded for being ill. I assure you, your friends and family don't have a clue what you are going through, nor does your doctor!


D-Ribose

2 User Reviews
1 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Heather (San Diego) on 06/22/2012
★☆☆☆☆

I eagerly tried d-ribose after reading "From Fatigued to Fantastic". The best price I could find was about $25 for a month's supply in powdered form. Because I am on disability and already spending $50 a month on supplements, I did not also get the co-Q10.

I used the d-ribose for two months. I took it without creatine but with L-Carnitine, and all the relatively affordable recommended vitamins.

It did nothing for my long term chronic fatigue syndrome, which is now significantly improved using Ted's recommendations for CFS Lugol's iodine protocol for 6 months following a healthy, wholesome diet devoid of processed foods, and putting the bulk of my focus into getting quality sleep. As a 20 year insomniac, sleep issues are the main thing the book really helped me to see the importance of getting a handle on in order to recover. (Doing whatever it takes to get a reasonable amount of sleep - melatonin, sleeping pills, ear plugs, eye mask, herbal teas, avoiding caffeine, herbal sleep remedies, exercise and sunlight when possible, etc.)

But, everyone is different and we have to keep trying different things so I'm not saying not to try D-Ribose. My chronic fatigue was very serious. I was completely bedridden for years. Perhaps in the future, when I'm actually trying to hold down normal responsibilities, I'll try d-ribose again to see if it gives me what I need to get through the day energy-wise.

Replied by Alex
(London, Uk)
06/29/2015
★☆☆☆☆

I too tried d-Ribose, after reading one raving revue on here. Initially I was quite impressed - almost felt like 20 again (44 now and, had 10 years of CFS in my 30s). I took anything from 5g to 20g per day. Initially building up the dose, but after 2 weeks I went down to 5g per day for another 3 weeks.After a week or so the initial high abated. Seems that if I get negative/ grumpy energies, even Ribose cannot kick through. Furthermore I developed digestive problems, seems Ribose was quite the Laxative for me (and left a constant funny tummy feeling). The strangest side-effect was hurting teeth. I thought that a couple of months old filling was playing up, and that I would require a root canal now, but when I discontinued Ribose the teeth/ nerves calmed down again. It was not just the one tooth that was affected too, but pretty much all molars which could get painful and very sensitive (and had not suffered from sensitive teeth before).

The phenomenon repeated when taking Ribose for 2 days (a few weeks later) as needing to finish some time-sensitive decorating.

To conclude - the side-effects definitely will, for now, keep me from adding Ribose to my supplement regime. I might take it occasionally, when requiring an extra boost of energy, but only if absolutely unavoidable.... That is not to say though that Ribose might not work (side-effect free) for others.


D-Ribose, Creatine

4 User Reviews
5 star (4) 
  100%

Posted by Energizer Bunny (Denver, Co) on 11/27/2011
★★★★★

I am a 42 year old old male, and I've had chronic fatigue ever since I can remember. The doctors were useless. I've tried everything, including diet, exercise, vitamins, herbs, etc. I couldn't even exercise because I was always too tired! I've never really been able to concentrate. Also, when I would wake up in the morning, I felt as if I hadn't rested at all. You know the feeling? Not fun. I failed high school because I couldn't concentrate. Fortunately, I have a strong talent for computer programming and I am self-employed with that. Sometimes days would go by before I could even start on a project, and even if I could get started, I'd have to stop and rest frequently throughout the day, while guzzling coffee just to be able to keep my eyelids open. People were always asking me why my cheeks were always red and that gets very embarrassing after a while, no pun intended (rosacea, could never get rid of it, until... )

* * * * * NOW HERE'S THE GOOD PART!!! * * * * *

That was all until recently... Then I gradually discovered Alpha Lipoic Acid (100MG, great energy and concentration booster), Acetyl L-Carnitine (500MG), CoQ10 (100MG), and I started feeling better. Then I read about D-Ribose (750MG) and how it is vital for energy. So I drove one hour to the nearest health food store (seriously) and the guy there said I needed to take it with Creatine (800MG). BOOM. That was the key. The D-Ribose and Creatine took it too a whole new level!!!!!!!!!! I took the D-Ribose (2 of the 750MG) and the Creatine (1 @ 800MG) and gave the same amount to my mother, and after a few hours I looked at her and said, "do you feel really good?" and she said, "yeah, I feel very peaceful and content... " and I replied, "Exactly. "...

As the day progressed, we both felt better and better. Now we take it every day. The pain she was having in her legs is pretty much gone. She is 70 years old and she gets WAY MORE done now. She goes all day without stopping, instead of her usual three naps a day. The first few days of taking it, I just felt really happy, very peaceful and focused. I take all of the above supplements each morning, 1 of each but 2 of the D-Ribose. Now when I start working in the morning, my concentration level is at 100%. Four hours later, my concentration level is at 100%. Eights hours into my work day, my concentration level is still at 100%, without taking a break except for lunch. Unreal. I'm in heaven... After working all day, I have the energy level of a 5 year old boy now, I'm not joking, I'm serious, and you know hey THEY are! Oh, and my rosacea is GONE! (The Alpha Lipoic Acid really helped with that! ) My face isn't red anymore! It feels good to look like I'm not sick! And I exercise every day now. I work out with dumbbells, 10 to 25 pounds with each arm, I climb stairs for exercise for 10 minutes straight (up and down) like it's nothing. Seriously. I had already been eating healthy, so it's not like you can live on fast food and expect this to work. For breaksfast I eat oatmeal with honey and cinnamon (I also add a little sea-salt, blackstrap molasses, and coconut oil), or scrambled eggs cooked with olive oil or coconut oil and I add basil and sea-salt (ridiculously delicious), for lunch I have chicken breasts cooked in olive oil or coconut oil, and... That's right... Basil and sea-salt.

Seriously, you have no idea how delicious that is. I also make stir-fry with raw spinach, red onions, tomatoes, garlic cloves (the whole clove, although not fun to peel) and whatever other vegetables seem good at the time, and I cook those in olive oil or coconut oil and... Basil and sea-salt... DELICIOUS!!! The healthy diet didn't help me with the chronic fatigue, but it sure does taste good! I was also very bloated for a while and started taking mixing psyllium husk powder mixed in water once or twice a day and that really helped! If you don't want to take all of the supplements listed above, you would still do extremely well with D-Ribose (2 to 4 @ 750MG) and Creatine (1 @ 800MG) each morning. Everyone says to take 5 Grams of D-Ribose every day, but I only take 1. 5 to 3 grams each day. But I keep upping my dose, and I feel better each day!!! Google it! YouTube it! EarthClinic it!!! I also heard (L?)-Carnosine was really good and should also be taken with the supplements listed above... THAT'S THE KEY: all of these supplements work together synergistically and each one helps all of the other supplements work better, as opposed to taking them separately. It's 11:38 PM right now and I'm still going full throttle! ...

Even after working 8 hours and then exercising! And my concentration level is still at 100%!!! And, I sleep like a baby at night, which used to be a problem. That's whats cool about the D-Ribose... The energy is there when I need it, and the relaxation is there when I need it. It's as if it does want I want it to do when I want it to do it! Also my memory is way way way better! I want to point out that this is not like drinking coffee... I'm not bursting with energy and nervous, I feel very relaxed, but focused, and physically and mentally strong. I don't feel like I'm "on something" and I don't feel "high"... I just have a very genuine, natural sense of well-being, truly. I just feel really really really good! Have I made my point? :) :) :)

Replied by Kissedsmiley
(New York, Ny, Usa)
11/27/2011

Do you take pill form or capsule or the fruit-chewable kind? I would love to be a better programmer and get back to my beloved dance exercise!

Replied by Loraine
(Orlando, Fl)
11/27/2011

Thanks Energizer Bunny for that awesome post. I love these long detailed stories of hope. Always a pleasure reading. Thanks again.

Replied by Bess
(Calgary, Alberta, Canada)
11/27/2011

Hi Energizer Bunny - Thanks so much for the information on D-Ribose - especially now with winter closing in, far less sunshine and the cold winds howling. I feel I have to fight off the urge to hibernate!

Tomorrow I will stop off at the health food store and get that combination of vitamins that you have been using. Thanks again - cheers! Bess

Replied by Pamm
(Alabaster, Al)
03/09/2012
★★★★★

I agree that D-Ribose is good for energy & Focus, its pretty expensive but worth it. The protocol for Cfs is D-Ribose with CQ-10, The Creatine was also mentioned however The Bad Side Effect of Creatine Was Rapid Weight Gain. Just letting you know because know Women Hate To Gain Weight :). However D-Ribose in Powder Form Is Very Good With CQ-10. I am not sure if you can get the same results without the Creatine, But I gained 10 pounds in a matter of 2 weeks on Creatine. So I stopped the protocol all together & haven't tried it without the Creatine. It takes about 3 to 4 weeks Taking it, 3 times a day on the D-Ribose to see results. If anyone tries it without the Creatine please post your Results. Thanks. Good Luck Everyone.

Replied by Skiz
(Ny)
07/15/2012
★★★★★

The creatine has given me ridiculous amounts of energy /focus, it might be that and not the D-Ribose.

After I workout I'm normally exhausted, but on creatine it seems like it gives me even more energy when i'm done. Unfortunatly, 5 grams gave me insomnia, so I'm trying 1.25 grams to see if I can get similar results without the insomnia. Try micronized monohydrate or less stomach problems.

Replied by Joe
(Philadelphia, Pa, USA)
09/27/2012
Replied by Daniel
(New Jersey)
10/31/2016

How long should it take for these supplements to work? I've had chronic fatigue for 6 years and I'm taking D-ribose, creatine, acetyl carnitine and COQ10. I've been taking them for a few days now to no effect. Please help!

Replied by Timh
(Ky)
10/31/2016
2063 posts
★★★★★

You should feel the results very soon, and if not, likely underlying issues. Adrenal fatigue, chronic inflammation are, among others, common causes of low energy.

Low hormones and aging are common factors in low energy. If over 40 or 50 try supplementing 25-50mg DHEA daily. 500-1000mg Tyrosine will help. Low antioxidant status is another big fatigue culprit; to correct this take 500mg Quercetin daily.

Replied by Mar
(Cartersville Ga)
11/26/2017

I'm happy for you. My question is, can you take this regimen long term? I know it's all natural but from what I have read even with all natural they suggest you cycle off and use natural remedies like this only when needed because it affects your brain chemistry. My problem is I need something I don't have to cycle off. I have ADD/chronic fatigue/anxiety and depression issues that all cause lack of energy and focus and extreme fatigue and I need something that I can stay on because this never seems to go away, battled it my whole life. My point is, I can't just “ take it when needed “ because my body needs it all the time, not in an addictive way, it just seems my body lacks these supplements to make it function properly.

Any advise? Trying to find natural remedies with no side affects or long term affects so I can take it nonstop and continually because nothing else has or is working.

Replied by Timh
(Ky)
11/28/2017
2063 posts

I have been taking 750mg D Ribose for couple yrs but still wasn't getting anything significant for energy. Recently I increased by using the bulk powder form by spoon & mouth or as a sugar substitute. Still needed more for energy so I began taking Ribose with Niacin and/or Niacinamide which converts to Nicotinamide Riboside which converts to NADH which is very important for energy and proper DNA or cell reproduction aka anti-aging.

As for cycling supplements, this usually applies to herbs or compounds not originally manufactured in the body, so with nutrients like Ribose you can take lots of it daily with only benefits.

As for your ADD/chronic fatigue/anxiety and depression issues, you definitely need to improve your natural detoxification system (which also improves energy); for starters I recommend 500mg L-Methionine + B-12/Folic Acid 1000/400 mcg + Dimethylglycine (DMG) 125mg. Take these together once a day preferably at the start of your day so you will have energy & clarity & a better mood thru the day.


Diatomaceous Earth

2 User Reviews
3 star (1) 
  50%
1 star (1) 
  50%

Posted by Heather (San Diego, Ca) on 03/06/2013
★☆☆☆☆

NAY. Diatomaceous Earth had no effect on my littany of Chronic Fagtigue related symptoms.

I used it for 7 or 8 weeks with no change or improvement in any of the things it is supposed to change or improve, and concluded that people writing in with testimonials are probably just experiencing placebo effect after taking it a few days.

It did kill earwigs (paper eating bugs) in my home though, so that justified buying it.


Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Elizabeth (Newry, Outside Us / Canada) on 07/02/2012
★★★☆☆

BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS

I have started to take diatomaceous earth food grade for chronic fatigue/m.e. in the past few weeks.... i do feel somewhat better but i am still plagued by insomnia which negates all the remedies i am trying... has anyone found the diatomaceous earth food grade helpful?

Replied by Tsavah
(Geronimo, Oklahoma)
07/04/2012

I have not seen Diatomaceous Earth labeled as food grade, but the fatigue problem is common to many prescription drugs and sauves. For example, steroid creams are often prescribed for all sorts of skin problems and over time the medications stop being useful, but cause all sorts of side effects, to include fatigue. I have trouble with my eyes, and the damage is likely permanent. Many of the other side effects common to Cushing's are starting to be less severe since I have stopped using the steriod cremes for my skin. All of the many doctors I have been treated by don't seem to know much about the side effects, nor suggest knowing about Cushing's.


Disability

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Kay (Fl, US) on 05/25/2014
★★★★★

Sorry you suffer CFS; your frustration is understandable. This post is about CFS & Disability (not conspiracy theories). In my experience, so much is inaccurate including (but certainly not limited to) diagnosis & disability criteria (which does not require EBV or depression, etc). I've suffered CFS since 1994, and got diasbility awarded (for myself, and @100 patients others over the decades since) based on how CFS symptoms affected our ability (in-ability) to function in several major areas of life, rendering us unable to work reliably, consistantly 35 hours per week (SS disability criteria). Contrary to your claim, severl of us (including me) got retro-awards of more then 2 years, back to the day we/I submitted my application (less the 30 days initial waiting period), plus SSDI (and for some TDI) back pay as well.

Yes CFS patients face ignorance and many hurdles, including problems getting awarded disability (because their applications do not provide specific enough details on how exactly CFS limits their ability to perform/manage day to day tasks, enough to render them unable to work); often because they are too sick/fogged to read/concentrate/complete paperwork on time; and/or they miss their SS deadlines and/or SS doctors appts; and/or fail to effectively communicate the debilitating EFFECTS of symptoms to SS officials/authorities and their own lawyers! Thus, many CFS sufferers NEED an attentive focused ADVOCATE (*who has read and understands the criteria for a disability award)! For those with limited finances or resources, FREE (or reduced cost/sliding scale) Advocates may be available thru Legal Aide Offices, and at/thru local and online CFS Support Groups! *Many good reference materials are available online. Patients simply must understand what information SS NEEDS before they apply for SS disability, or their application will be denied (for not providing sufficient evidence of disability)!

Thankfully, knowledge of CFS is growing rapidly; there are now many good doctors, nurses, PA's, chiropractors, therapists, even masseurs, etc. that are highly educated about CFS nowadays! One of the best (IMHO) is Joseph Teitlebalm MD, and his End Fatigue website (which hosts a free diagnostic test online, that provides personal results and recommendations for supplements, and/or RX's and/or alternative therapies, for various income levels; and even a report for your doctor too! ). His free newsletter is a great resource for CFS sufferers!

FYI: the CDC has (for several years now) publicized/advertised (pubs, radio/TV etc) that CFS is not a psych disorder; and they are sponsoring PSA's and educational materials so those hurdles are coming down as well!

Replied by Kay
(Fl, US)
06/03/2014
★★★★★

My reply (above) got separated from the Original Post and now is confusing, so I'll add more info so others can benefit more.

SS Disability for CFS is not impossible to get, nor improbable, but many applicants do get discouraged because they are often too sick to the research, understand, and get through the process; which unfortunately is often lengthy and stressful; (and can take more then 2 years in cities with many applicants and very few disability judges). Anyone considering SS disability MUST read the info in the SS website (or have an advocate do so to/for them) so they know what is required. This is often "too much" for CFS'ers, so here's a brief summary of the key points (and some helpful tips):

REQUIREMENTS: All SS Applicants require a Medical Doctor's diagnosis; and requires you complete several applications forms over a period of many months (and usually Appeals forms too). The forms ask several key questions that act as evidence, which is used to determine the likelihood of a valid disability claim. The application process also requires your doctor's support (i.e him/her submitting a lot of paperwork on your behalf); so you simply must ask him/her directly, if he/she will support you! If he/she can't or doesn't want to, for any reason, either plead with them, or go find another doctor who will support you (then start seeing them immediately).

If you get past the first 2 (of 3) application stages, then (approximately 6-24 months after your initial application) you must see several SS doctors for interviews, exams, physical and mental/cognative tests. Stay aware: All SS reviewers are doing their best to eliminate you/your paperwork from their mile-high pile of applicants, so keep this in mind at all times when answering questions, and when seeing doctors (don't slack off)! You can only prevent your elimination by giving them plentiful, relevant precise evidence of your disability, so they can forward your file to the next reviewer. IF each reviewer gets adequate, convincing evidence of disability, they will (eventually) send you to a Disability Judge (the only impartial person in the process; but unfortunately, the last person to see your case file)! If you do not provide plentiful, relevant, convincing evidence (with ALL your applications & during exams), you/your papers won't ever get to a Judge (period)! BEWARE: The forms are designed so there is NOT NEAR ENOUGH SPACE for you to provide an adequate amount of evidence to validate your claim! Therefore you must attach additional sheets of paper full of relevant, convincing evidence of your disability!

TIP: Each SS Rep must be able to easily VISUALISE (from your paperwork) exactly how & why your illness prevents you from working. In addition, all your SS doctors will need to see evidence (with their own eyes), in your person, that you are indeed disabled! They will judge your disability by how you/your body responds (or is unable to respond) to various stimuli. (Note: Your doctor provided a diagnosis and medical records full of symptoms; but YOU MUST provide SS with evidence of their disabling effects on YOUR body, mind, and life; and such that they prevent you performing normally/adequately (in major areas of your life)!

WARNING: Don't consider applying unless you're seriously, chronically ill (longer than 6 mo's) AND you really REALLY NEED financial and/or housing assistance because you have no other option. Living on SS is very difficult; and HUD/Sec 8 is no prize (and has long waiting lists)! BEWARE: Many/most CFS treatments, meds, supplements, etc, are not covered by Medicare (but many/most can be deducted as medical expenses which helps with benefits). Going on disability is a Major Life Decision. BEWARE: Once you go on disability; if you later get well, and decide to go off disability, you'll (virtually never) be able get it again, no matter how disabled you become! However, once you're on disability, you are allowed earn up to @$900 per month without it affecting your SS disability status (but the work/earnings may also reduce/prevent you from getting other benefits/assistance).

BE FOREWARNED & BE PREPARED: 98% of all SS applications for CFS (and most other non-life-threatening illnesses) get denied on their 1st AND 2nd applications; so you must Appeal (in writing) after each denial, within the deadline written on your denial notice. If you get to round 3, plan to see at least 3 different SS Doctors, on their schedule (no rescheduling allowed). You MUST NOT miss any application or appeal deadline, or appointments no matter how sick/bedridden you are (so plan ahead: find/rent a wheelchair/gurney, and a driver on your appt day)! BEWARE: If you miss an application, deadline, or appt, you must restart the application process over again, at round 1 (at the back of the line). This is why many people need Advocates or Lawyers especially when their claim has been denied a second time.

Lawyer Legal Fees: If your claim is awarded with the help of a lawyer, the law allows them [if you agree via contract] to take up to @1/3 of your monthly disability award for the first 3-5 years or so. So be ready to negotiate attorneys fees; and don't hesitate to ask them to take your case pro-bono if you're in dire straits! Many Low Income and Indigent people can get free legal advice and legal help from most city/county Legal Aide Offices [on a free, reduced, or sliding scale), and also through many Foundations, Societies, Charities, Support Groups, Churches, and similar Orgs!

ADVOCACY: If you have family/friends/co-workers/church members (who can do research, and comprehend the SS disability criteria; and can see, apply, and transcribe how your illness/symptoms is disabling you, [and fits the criteria]) they often make great advocates as well! They certainly will make the process much easier on you/the patient! (Most lawyers do a phone interview or two, then they expect you to fill out forms, so they can build your case; if you cannot communicate effectively or fill out forms adequately, you must tell them this; and/or you must find someone else to help you communicate effectively! ).

This is how YOU CAN prepare your case while you are sick: 1) Start gathering witness testimonies (as many as possible): Ask all your family members, and friends, associates, neighbors, (even children! ) who know of/witness your illness, to write/dictate a reference letter to the Judge that A) states your relationship, and how you know one another (i.e. how long, from where, the nature of your relationship, etc). B)Then ask them to then write/dictate several paragraphs comparing/contrasting the "old" healthy you (your abilities, achievements, hobbies, sports, travels, physical/mental prowess, personality etc) with the "new" disabled you (always sick, doesn't call/go out, cant do activities/hobbies/sports/socials; and cant concentrate/remember things because of exhaustion/illness/confusion/fainting, etc; and describe how you have a totally different persona now [a very ill person]). 2) Next ask someone to find/make a lined "chart" with @8 columns (1 wide column for recording Symptoms; 7 narrow columns for Mon-Sun) for you to record your symptoms. On that chart (column 1) list every CFS symptom you have, starting with the most disabling and the most frequent; fill up as many pages as you can. NEXT: Near the very bottom of the last page, add 3 new Headers (in the Symptoms column); Functional Hours(how many hours you were up, functioning each day); below that your overall Abilityto perform hygiene tasks + food prep + basic household chores: (Unable, Minimal, Somewhat, Able). Below that, your Mobility Status (Bedridden, Couch/Chairbound, Housebound, NH needed help to leave house, ND needed a driver, NW/C/C needed Wheelchair or Scooter/Crutches/Cane, etc). Below that, include a key for any/all abbreviations you use on your chart. (Make at least 10 copies of this "weekly template", then put your original aside for making copies for next months charts).

NEXT: Date the page and fill in todays column, putting a check-mark next to every symptom you experience today (do this for each and every day from now on; this is evidence/testimonial proof, a legal record of your day-to-day ill-health). Fill in your charts daily; if you miss a day go back and fill it in to the best of your recollection; or write in why you missed your charting (too sick, too tired, too weak, too confused, I can't remember, I forgot, I lost the paper, I couldn't hold a pen, It was too depressing/confusing, I slept all day, etc). Once your charting habit gets rolling; on another page (or on a calendar or computer file, or diary, or phone-a-friend-and-dictate), start documenting/dictating how your symptoms prevented you from doing normal tasks/activities throughout your day(s) that week. Any kind of general or specific summary is OK (don't bother correcting your typos/mistakes; you're sick, don't waste precious energy unnecessarily). Example: Sunday: Too weak, can't get out of bed. Cant sleep, muscle spasms. Sickly, too exhausted to shower. Bad stomach can't eat today. Sore glands, to weak to eat/talk. Tues?; Soo tired, not sure what day it is, no energy, to weak to shower. Need rest. Ate tuna from can again. Mon : read 5 pages, can't remember any of it. Feel brain dead; can't calculate bills. Forgot to call bank again. Ears ringing, huge headaches 3 days now. To weak to cook, ask Dale to make pot of soup. Call mom, need help bathing ASAP. Thurs; Migraine, too sick/dizzy can barely move. Barfing all day, dry heaves FRI?: I dont know, I can't remember...

Make copies of everything; BEWARE: SS often looses paperwork, even complete files so do not give them your originals unless you have copies! If you are alone/immobile call the nearest church and beg for their help: most will send someone to help you!

Hope this help someone; Good Luck; Blessings to All


Distilled Water, Apple Cider Vinegar

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Max (Atlanta, Ga) on 12/24/2006
★★★★★

I've been a vegetarian for many years. And although I'm not 100% vegan, I rarely eat dairy (except yougurt). I get plenty of exercise and I don't smoke and I rarely drink (red wine once a month). In spite of all this, I have been suffering from CFS for the last 7 years. Through diligence and hard work, many of the symptoms have slowly faded away. Recently, I got one of Kevin Trudeau's books and in that book he talks alot about the wonders of apple cider vinegar and pure distilled water. I've also researched this on the net and it all seems to be true. So for the last two weeks I've been drinking 8 full glasses of distilled water everyday and I've been taking 2 tablespoons of vinegar a day. I've noticed some obvious improvements. The most significant thing that I noticed is that I no longer have such dry skin and my scalp isn't flaky anymore. Also, it seems I'm sleeping better and I don't crave sweets has been lessened. Nonetheless, in spite of all the good news, I've been experiencing something that's totally unexpected and very unusual. I'm constipated. I've never had a problem with constipation. Even in my worst days with CFS I was never constipated. But now, every other day it seems I'm struggling to get something to come out. This is really baffling to me because I'm drinking more water than ever before and I have more energy, yet I'm suffering from constipation. Do you know what may be causing this?

Replied by Katwilm
(Wilmington, Nc)
02/24/2011

Whatever the cause of the constipation, magnesium is your best friend. Can't really get too much since your body devours it, but take the magnesium pills once, twice or even three times a day and the results are more than satisfying.

Replied by Amy
(Little Rock, Ar)
07/12/2011

I took a chemistry class in college and used distiller water for many of our very precise experiments. The reason for distilled water is that it is in a very stable and pure water form. It lacks vitamins, minerals and therefore ions. This is where people are slightly misinformed. Distilled water is a pure form but it's used for experiments due to its condition NOT to interact with other side reactions.

We as humans need ions in our water. We need this for osmosis and cellular interactions in order to function at the basic levels. I asked my instructor specifically about drinking distilled water and he claimed we would eventually die. I'm not sure about that, however, it would definitely explain constipation. Our bowels operate significantly by using ion exchange and water osmosis. If water cannot be pulled through our bodies using ions, just imagine the challenge of moving uncharged water from your kidneys to your bowels.... Not gonna happen. The suggestion to at least add magnesium or simply salt to your water might help. I personally would drink bottled water while resuming your normal regimen and look for change. Hope this helps.

Replied by Jay
(Toronto, Ont, Canada)
07/12/2011
★★★★★

Amy and Max. I have been drinking about 3 to 4 liters of distilled water per day for the past 19 years. Let me assure you that I am not near death, nor do I have constipation. My daily bowel movements can vary with the number of full meals I have the previous day but 3 a day of each is the daily average. Max, I think your comments about skin and scalp improvements and the ACV gives a better understanding of what is going on. The ACV is helping with the candida overgrowth throughout your body(which was causing the dry and flakey scalp and skin), but without a serious input of probiotics there is not enough good bacteria in your gut to balance the bad and to allow proper digestion to be maintained. Although yogurt can supply some probiotics, you would need to eat probably the same amount as your water intake to be effective. I strongly urge you to puchase and use a good 6 or 8 strain probiotic from the refrigerated section of a good health food store. Following the directions on the label should alleviate your problem.


Essiac Tea

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Dezi (San Jose, Ca) on 07/10/2010
★★★★★

I have battled chronic fatigue for more than 20 years. Sometimes it's baffling; it comes and goes. However, I have managed to keep working all this time because of the natural remedies I've used. The XMRV viral connection makes sense to me. I had Epstein-Barr virus. I treated this with the essiac fomula very successfully, and I am due for another brewing. It might be worth a try. It turns my energy around with a week of taking the brew morning and night on an empty stomach. Essiac is said to kill viruses and cancer cells in the bloodstream. I'd like to add that I took the essiac formula to my cousin and his partner, who had come down with AIDS many years ago. To this day, they still take it, and it has been a literal life saver for them. Chronic fatigue can also have a thyroid component, and also adrenal exhaustion may play a part, or a combination. A homeopathic doctor told me years ago that my mitochondria were dysfunctional. The mitochondria are organisms that live in our cells. They consume sugar and release energy, giving us energy at the cellular level. If this is not working correctly, you will not have any energy being supplied to your body. The mitochondria can be effected by viruses, candida, etc.! I'm currently looking into how to support the mitochondria. Anyone out there have any suggestions for that?

Replied by Kay
(Destin, Fl)
03/05/2012

Re: Mitochondial Support: Definitely CoQ10 and Cell Salts (aka Tissue Salts available at most Health Stores. Note: the LARGE bottles of Bio-Plasma [a combo of all the salts] are very inexpensive and a great way to start); function explained here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biochemic_cell_salts

United Mitochondial Disease Foundation www.umdf.org

Start at the top of the page (link below) with things to avoid etc. Scroll down to find Vitamin & Supplement Reccomendations/Chart. Below that is the Medication, Minerals, Vitamins and Substrates that May be Helpful (with the advice of a physician of course): http://www.umdf.org/site/c.otJVJ7MMIqE/b.5692887/k.6686/Treatments__Therapies.htm


Evening Primrose Oil

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Jackie (Midwest) on 04/22/2020
★★★★★

Chronic Fatigue and Evening Primrose Oil

I got some evening primrose oil 1000mg./ capsule last evening. Took 3 when I got home Slept very well last night felt more rested this morning took 3 capsules again this morning. It's really helped. Directions are to take 1 three times a day but I really need a push to get going. I am just physically and mentally drained and my thinking is foggy. So glad this helped. I dont know if it's the complete answer but it has definitely helped. I ordered some hypothalamus extract from amazon. Will try that too. Just wanted to relay my experience with evening primrose oil for this horrible fatigue.


Fatigue Vs Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Jeannette (Northwestern, WI, USA) on 11/09/2007
★★★★★

A'lot of people who have chronic fatigue syndrome are way beyond the reach of healing methods for simple chronic fatigue. chronic fatigue is just that... ongoing fatigue. it can be due to physical, emotional or mental conditions and once they are addressed, the fatigue is gone. chronic fatigue syndrome, CFS, is NOT simple fatigue. it is a neurological autoimmune response that manifests like influenza, an activation of our immune system. it includes chronic fatigue, but that is only a part of the symptomology.

Replied by Nadia
(Western, WA)
07/02/2008

I agree with you, Jeannette, in that there is a HUGE difference between being chronically fatigued and having CFS. I was diagnosed with CFS in October of 1991, by a leading researcher from the University of WA. She said I had the worst case she had seen to date and that I should not "listen" to quackary and thus waste my money on supposed cures. Yes, if you are chronically fatigued, you can "cure" that with a change of your diet or various other things. But what I have is not "curable." I, however, have helped myself by daily exercise, drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy diet, and positive thinking. No one told me to do these things, I have just been doing them from day one of diagnosis.

Replied by Georgia
(Rackenford, UK)
08/08/2008

You must have a low immune system, therefore if you have mercury/silver fillings you might need to see a mercury free dentist to get them out because your body can't deal with the mercury.

Replied by Kay
(Fwb, Fl)
02/19/2010
★★★★★

Please understand that CFS is so far beyond "fatigue" it's impossible for a normal person to relate to. Most people with CFS can barely function;'sheer exaustion' barely comes close to the feeling (I was an athelete with several world records, so I know what exhaustion is). Imagine having a restful nights sleep, and awakening to a beautiful day with fun plans, but discovering you are so "drained" you cannot hold your toothbrush up long enough to brush your teeth (let alone your hair). Imagine not being able to get to the mailbox on the street, knowing there are cards (and checks) out there because it's your birthday! Imagine having to call your 80 year-old next door neighbor to ask them to tote your rolling garbage can to the curb 20 feet from your house (when you've mowed thier lawn since you were 10). Imagine being this sick for 10 years now, but you are still that same happy go lucky person (despite this devastating illness). Then imagine people saying callously, "Oh I'm tired too; just get over it... you look like you're going to drop dead any minute!"

Replied by Amy
(Ny)
05/01/2012

Kay, thank you for your post, and big hugs.

Jeannette thanks for speaking up on this topic.

CFS the debilitating illness is starting to be called neuroendocrineimmune disease. Researchers are finally discovering the links to cancer and autism and gene defects or mutations. There may be links to animal retroviruses. They are barely scratching the surface because of limiting funding. Many of us have suffered for decades and just want to have some semblance of a life. May 12, 2012 marks the 20th anniversary of International Awareness Day for ME/CFS, FM, MCS & GWS.


Food Sensitivities

3 User Reviews
5 star (3) 
  100%

Posted by Emilia (Atlanta, GA) on 03/06/2008
★★★★★

I've had CFS for about 6 years and in the past few months I've made a remarkable recovery. In my case underlying causes were food sensitivities (dairy and corn) and PBB poisoning as well as metal toxicity. In Michigan in the 70s a chemical company accidentally dumped PBB into cattle feed and it got into the food chain. Working with my kinesiologist I've done a lot of detoxing and now am up to about 75% of the energy I used to have. I got rid of my aluminum cookware. This year I'll have my metal (mercury) fillings replaced. The headaches and other conditions like IBS are gone. CFS and fibromyalgia seem to be related to the body being filled with toxins more than its able to handle. That explains why conventional medicine can't figure out what the cause it -- it's a different set of causes for every individual. Still, anything you can to do detox should help, and look for food intolerances as well.

Replied by Mary
(Eastpointe, MI)
11/12/2008

In regards to comment about the PBB spill in cow feed in MI. in the70's -- has anyone any idea how to research the effects? I keep hitting a brick wall!!!

Replied by Lloyd
(Charlotte, Nc)
12/10/2012

Two solutions: If the CFS began following a serious or persistent infection like Strep, Mono or ear infection or sinus infection and then a month later there persisted fatigue, the problem might be that the infection (virus or bacteria) still is latent in the system.

Use colloidal silver to knock it out. I took it for four months, a tablespoon twice daily and in a week felt much better. But it took a ful four months to completly finish off the infection. I also sprayed into the sinus cavity a few times and irrigated the ear canals.

Second, CFS can be caused by depletion of the adrenals. First time I felt that fatigue was following a lot of high pressure in the business world. I took two adrenal caps after lunch and supper and within a week my energy exploded back. Dropped the dose down to two a day with meals, usually at lunch. If I took them at supper (following my recovery) I found that sometimes I had so much energy I couldn't sleep. That's why I take them at lunch.

Replied by Jeannie
(Ventura, Ca)
04/06/2013

Emilia, you are right on! I am still trying to figure out exactly what has invaded my body or whacked it out. I know I have heavy metal poisening from dental work. My earliest symptoms even started after I first had mercury fillings placed. And then later more severe symptoms correlated with more dental work. Pregnancy, sadly, caused the toxins/infection to really spread. So many other factors mixed in.

Our conventional medical system is generally of no help (and my experience is even alternative doctors, although more open minded and knowledgeable, often just do not get what we are going through either... but learning).

I am amazed at how the average person thinks you can put chemicals and other known toxins into your body or on it and it is acceptable and then completely disregard that it could be the reason for any illness that conventional medicine will never find the cause of. The correlation between the rise in illnesses we had never even heard of 30 years ago and just how messed up our food supply has become... just unbelievable the denial.

Unfortunately our generation is caught in the middle of the "awakening" (seems to be the case in all areas of our life/generation..Ugh! )... But hope we can figure it out enough that our children do not have to suffer or have less of a life like I feel happened to us. Slow decline where I knew something was just not right. Basically feel like a zombie... Brain knows what I WANT to do, but body will not cooperate. That is no life. Not giving up though!!


Food Sensitivities
Posted by Sharon (Brookfield, WI) on 01/12/2008
★★★★★

I was diagnosed with CFS several years ago. Last year I went to a natural medicine clinic at the suggestion of a friend and had a biofeedback session. Turns out that I had was several food sensitivities (dairy, coffee, chicken and wheat). Once these items were identified and eliminated from my diet, my energy level was restored within 6-8 wks! I also took herbal supplements for about 6 months. I also suffered from post nasal drip in the mornings and sneezing. Once the dairy was eliminate, my symptoms ceased within a week. Amazing!

Replied by Natalie
(Tillamook, Or)
12/14/2009
★★★★★

I couldnt agree more! I recently found out I also have food sensitivities. Dairy, all grains, potatoes, tomatoes, & eggs. I found out that my childred also suffer from them before I was tested myself. My 3 year old was very tired, cranky, wild, constant runny nose, eczema & she got sick a lot! Getting her screened for food sensitivites has transformed our life! Id say everyone should get one! 30% of people in the US have some form of food sensitivity, its a good tool to have.


General Feedback

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Susan (Saint Mary's, Ga, Usa) on 09/14/2011

History:

Developed asthma at pre-school age; used to play in big oxygen tent which covered my bed.

Developed Rheumatoid Arthritis at age 31 after birth of 2nd child; doctors still vacillate as to whether I have true RA as titers do not show up, but symtoms follow MD guidelines and over the years have taken extremely toxic meds for RA. No longer will take heavy meds for RA; deal with in other ways.

Developed Chronic Fatigue, or what was diagnosed as such, shortly after life long best friend died at age 50 with heart desease. I was then 48. Went to doctor I have used for years (still drive 12 hours to see her 2x a year) and told her I thought I was suffering from depression due to friend's death. She wanted to take blood work before just slapping me on anti-depressive meds. Tests came back with mono; which in Adults is Epstein Barr and two other less common viruses/ She treated me for 6 weeks and at the end of that time, though fevers were less, fatigue and stumbling, no sleep, too much sleep, were not markably improved. Lived with this for many more years with no treatment until MDs starting treating with B12 injections. I now take 3x a week (I am 60). It does help, but not alot. Episodes still occur with virilent effects every three to six weeks. Last year was put on SAVELLA which is new treatment for Fibromyalgia. It has helped some too, spaced out episodes to four to six months, but now having problems with dry eye; loss of part of film covering eye and IBS.

I have to tell all of you, common sense says autoimmune diseases are either related or feed off of each other or must strike some commonality as people with one autoimmune situation almost always have or develop another.

Though I have nothing against "good" doctors (was raised by two), I have strong objections to now taking 22 pills a day which in no way shape or form can be good for my system and probably to some extent counteract each other. I am a Type A personality (which most autoimmune sufferers are), used to be very athletic, no longer eat meat as body will not tolerate and, of course, like almost all CFS sufferers no longer work outside the home, much less overwork, which I was famous far.

I have lost friends over this as no one who has not suffered these life changing effects understands what you go through; luckily I do have a good spouse who tolerates my illness and my voracious reading and searches to try to find cause, effect and some form of treatment to help. I do think the floride poisoning reasearch has some strong studies to back it; oh and my hubby calls me a mine canary because if anything can effect anyone negatively by ingestion or skin contact, I usually "fall" off the perch first.

Any studies or possible treatment with diet change or minerals or vitamin additives that anyone has found to be helpful I would appreciate.

thanks.................stuck in lower rural, backward, Georgia

Susan

PS don't let anyone, with MD after their name or not, fool you into thinking this is caused by depression; anyone who has lived with chronic illness of any sort for more than a couple of years gets depressed.... HELLO?... Your life as you know it stops. If you need antidepressives to help control your sense of despair, take them, but be aware they come with their own issues as any chemical does......... Yoga does work for alot of people.

Replied by Barbara
(Rosedale, New Jersey)
09/15/2011

I had chronic fatigue for over 10 years in the '80's when it wasn't recognized as a 'real problem'. Eventually I even had to quit working (could never collect disability). Even spent 3 weeks in the hospital for testing by an infectious disease doctor, who found no reason for my symptoms. What I found out, over time and by accident, was that being on antibiotics would relieve my symptoms for a significant period of time. Luckily, my personal physician believed me, and would prescribe for me when I would get really bad. Over time, I gradually came out of it.

Replied by Granny Laura
(Tx)
06/29/2017

I came out of remission 11 yrs ago due to taking a beta blocker for 3 1/2 years. The regular MDs and the docs at the Fibromyalgia clinic are always asking me if I am depressed. I keep telling them that if I wasn't depressed I'd be CRAZY!



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