Chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as M.E. is a condition where someone feels excessively tired through no physical cause. Usually the sufferer will not have the energy to carry out their normal activities and rest will not make this feeling go away. It is a condition that affects more women than men and as yet it in not known what causes it. Chronic fatigue syndrome is difficult to diagnose and many of the symptoms may indicate other conditions so it is important to seek medical attention to rule out other possible causes. Some of the symptoms a person with chronic fatigue syndrome may have are:

• Severe fatigue that comes on suddenly, especially after you've had the flu
• Low-grade fever (100.4oF) and chills
• Sore throat and swollen lymph glands in the neck or armpits
• Muscle and joint aches, without any swelling
• Headaches
• Sleep that doesn't feel refreshing
• Feeling like you are in a fog and are unable to concentrate or remember

There are no real conventional treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome and no real cure. However there are a number of things that could help for example pacing which is where you carry out the activities you can do and gradually increase your work load. It is also important to say that everybody reacts to the condition in their own way and so an individual plan for treatment is required.

You could consider looking at your diet as often changes in what you take on could significantly affect your symptoms. There are a number of dietary supplements that could benefit you and they include magnesium, essential fatty acids and vitamin B among others. Many people are often recommended psychotherapy as a way to help them deal with the condition and in some cases changes in thought patterns can cause improvements in symptoms.

In terms or alternative therapies a number are thought to be beneficial and they include certain herbal and homeopathic remedies. It is important to visit a practitioner and make sure you get the one that is right for you. Acupuncture is thought to help sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome, particularly in help relieve symptoms like headaches, depression and insomnia. Other possible therapies include chiropractic and massage.