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Traditional Medicine in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Traditional and complementary therapies for the multifactorial nature of chronic fatigue.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is Traditional Medicine in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) is a long-term illness characterised by severe fatigue not relieved by rest, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction and post-exertional malaise lasting more than 6 months.

Causes are multifactorial: viral infection, immune dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, stress and genetic predisposition.

Traditional and complementary practices (acupuncture, qigong, herbal therapy, B12-magnesium supplements) may be effective in symptom control alongside conventional therapy.

Symptoms

Severe persistent fatigue (>6 months)
Post-exertional malaise (worsening 24-72 hours)
Sleep disturbance and unrefreshing sleep
Cognitive dysfunction (brain fog)
Muscle and joint pain (without inflammation)
Headache (new type or pattern change)
Sore throat and tender lymph nodes

Risk Factors

Earlier viral infection (Epstein-Barr, COVID-19, enterovirus)
Female sex (3-4 times higher risk)
Stress, trauma and chronic anxiety
Genetic predisposition (family history)
Allergic and autoimmune disease
Hormonal disorder (thyroid, adrenal)
Vitamin D, B12 and magnesium deficiency

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe fatigue lasting >6 months requires evaluation by an internal medicine and integrative medicine physician
  • Complementary therapies (acupuncture, qigong) should be received from certified practitioners
  • Herbal supplements may interact with medications; physician approval is mandatory
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy and graded exercise programme may help

Treatment Methods

01
Acupuncture (weekly, 8-12 sessions)
02
Qigong and tai chi exercises (gentle movements)
03
B12 (methylcobalamin) and magnesium supplementation
04
Coenzyme Q10 and L-carnitine support
05
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)
06
Sleep hygiene and graded exercise programme

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.