Chronic fatigue syndrome is partly due to a malfunction of the immune system.
How does chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) set in? It all comes down to the immune system, according to a new study, published in Psychoneuroendocrinology. The researchers studied the cases of 55 people who were taking treatment with interferon alpha, used to fight hepatitis C. Many patients on this treatment develop symptoms of chronic fatigue, which can last up to six months.
“Overactive Immune System”
Of the 55 people tested in the study, 18 had symptoms of chronic fatigue. The researchers then discovered that the immune response of these 18 patients was superior to that of the other patients, even before the start of treatment. But when symptoms of chronic fatigue kicked in, immune system markers returned to normal levels.
“For the first time, we have shown that people with chronic fatigue have an overactive immune system,” says study leader Dr. Alice Russell. For her, the link between the two biological manifestations is especially evident at the beginning of the syndrome. “A better understanding of the biology that underlies the development of chronic fatigue is needed to help patients suffering from this debilitating disease. These results allow us to better identify those at risk”, conclude the scientists.
Symptoms
Chronic fatigue syndrome, or “yuppies syndrome” (young urban professionals) occurs suddenly, most of the time in people around 35 years old, often very invested in their daily activities. In addition to the immune system, there are multiple causes: an infection (due to herpes, bacteria, etc.), psychological disorders, etc.
The symptoms are as follows: deep fatigue; intolerance to standing; occurrence of discomfort after exercise; memory and concentration disorders; muscle and joint pain; “infectious” type symptoms: lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes), pharyngitis, moderate fever and feeling of “hot/cold”
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