Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Millions of people in the U.S. struggle with an invisible condition causing unrelenting fatigue that significantly impacts the ability to participate in daily life. As there is no specific diagnostic test and symptoms can be broad, treating chronic fatigue syndrome requires an integrative approach.

What is chronic fatigue?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can be a debilitating condition, leaving sufferers feeling drained of energy, unable to complete even the simplest of daily tasks. Those who experience persistent and unexplained exhaustion often find themselves on an exhausting search for relief – until they discover functional medicine.
Underlying Root Causes of Chronic Fatigue
The INTERHEART study, which looked at the incidence of heart attacks in every inhabited continent in the world (in 52 countries), found that most risk factors include modifiable dietary and lifestyle actions. These modifiable risk factors for high cholesterol include:
- Viral Infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Candida, mycoplasma, or COVID-19
- Autoimmunity
- Leaky gut or microbiome disruption
- Chronic, low-grade inflammation
- Hormonal imbalances
- Micronutrient deficiencies
- Stress or trauma
- Environmental Factors, such as exposure to toxins, allergens, or mold
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Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue
- Cognitive difficulties
- Sleep disturbances
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headaches
- Flu-like symptoms
- Sore throat and tender lymph nodes
- Dizziness upon standing (similar to POTS)
- Sensitivity to foods, odors, or chemicals
- Digestive discomfort (bloating, nausea, or inflammatory bowel symptoms)
- New or worsening depression or anxiety
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment & Testing
Functional medicine treatment for chronic fatigue involves comprehensive and thorough diagnostics to reveal imbalances that can be targeted with individualized solutions. This approach addresses physical symptoms and underlying root causes alike, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle considerations.
A functional medicine doctor’s primary goal will be to resolve chronic fatigue by employing various tests and treatments, including:
- Dietary and supplement therapy
- Testing for Epstein-Barr virus or other infections
- Immune support
- Mitochondria & metabolic support
- IV Drip Therapy
- Functional stress relief
Our holistic primary care practice explores solutions from Western and Eastern medicine to improve your energy levels, decrease pain, help you relax and sleep better, and manage other related symptoms. Additional healing modalities may include:
- Massage
- Breath work, mindfulness, and meditation
- Yoga
- Acupuncture
- Addressing the gut-brain connection
- Treatments for adrenal insufficiency
- Managing stress through exercise
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Clinical studies show many people with chronic fatigue experience better stamina and reduced fatigue.

Deficiencies in these are common culprits behind fatigue and brain fog. Supplementation can help restore energy, especially for those with dietary restrictions or absorption issues.

Supporting Services for Chronic Fatigue Treatment
Chinese Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine has been widely used throughout history to restore balance to the body. Herbal compounds focus on adjusting immune dysfunction, improving energy metabolism, and regulating HPA acid activity without the potential side effects of modern pharmaceuticals.
Studies show the safety and effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine is a promising avenue for chronic fatigue syndrome treatment.
Chinese Medicine is an ancient approach to health based on the holistic understanding of the person: what happens in one part of the body affects the whole body and is deeply connected to the mind.
Chinese medicine has been used to:
- Improve fatigue
- Relieve pain
- Promote sleep
- Reduce stress & inflammation