Fibromyaglia causes widespread pain throughout the body, fatigue and sleep disorders. Exhaustion, weaknesses, pain and sleep disturbances are also associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Treatments for the disorders involve lifestyle changes and therapies to help maintain functioning, according to the Fibromyalgia Network. Nutritional supplements are sometimes recommended, but they have not been proven effective and should not replace medical treatment.
Diet
Antioxidants help minimize stress by inhibiting the destructive effects of oxidation, which may cause chemical imbalances in the body that result in greater fatigue levels, according to the Fibromyalgia Network. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants, such as malic acid, found in apples, and calcium, which occurs in dark green vegetables. Avoiding preservatives and artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, helps antioxidants work better because they don't have to clear the body of the chemicals. Low-fat diets are recommended to reduce fatigue symptoms.
Exercise
Aerobic activity as simple as walking, running or bike-riding improves circulation, regulates blood pressure and strengthens the heart to help nourish the muscles and surrounding tissues. Exercise also decreases anxiety and depression to cope better with fatigue symptoms. Moderate exercise is recommended, because chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia patients may become overly tired following strenuous activity.
The Fibromyalgia Network recommends people get involved in activities they enjoy, start out slowly if they are not used to exercise, avoid intense activity and work with a doctor or physical therapist on an individualized exercise program. Gradually increasing exercise improves chronic fatigue syndrome, MayoClinic.com says. Chronic fatigue patients are advised to work with a physical therapist and start an exercise program that slowly becomes more demanding.
Supplements
Supplements containing melatonin, a serotonin hormone, may help improve sleep patterns and reduce symptoms of fatigue. Ribose supplementation may increase energy for people with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia, according to Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum on the Dr. Oz Show website. A daily multivitamin is also recommend, as widespread deficiencies are common with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, he says.
Medication
Antidepressants may be prescribed for fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue to induce sleep and relieve pain, MayoClinic.com notes. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also recommended for the disorders to reduce pain.
Counseling
Cognitive therapy has been found to improve symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients learn to deal with stressful situations and maintain moderate levels of activities. A therapist also teaches patients to replace negative thoughts and behaviors with positive thinking. Cognitive behavior therapy may be combined with graduated exercise to improve fatigue symptoms.
