1. Optimize Daily Nutrition With a Balanced Diet
Scientists and doctors are still at odds about the causes and treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Since CFS remains a mystery in many ways, it is unwise to put children on "alternative fad diets" or unproven supplements for symptom relief. Instead, many health practitioners agree that CFS patients should eat a healthy, balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, low-fat proteins, non-gluten whole grains and essential fatty acids. Avoid giving your child refined sugars, saturated fats or caffeinated drinks. A balanced mix from each food group will help him take in valuable nutrients that may play a role in increasing his fragile energy levels.
2. Develop a Graded Exercise Program
Going for maximum burn is counterproductive for CFS sufferers because it can cause insurmountable exhaustion that lasts for days--or even weeks. Avoid letting your child fall into the complete "couch-potato syndrome," however. The muscle weakening and deconditioning that comes with inactivity can cause additional health problems that may exacerbate her CFS. Take her to see a physical therapist who will develop an exercise program that begins slowly, with the option to increase the intensity if your child gains strength and endurance. Appropriate exercise for CFS patients includes gentle yoga, water therapy, short walks and simple stretches.
3. Alleviate Symptoms With Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be an effective alternative treatment for the frustrating physical, mental and emotional symptoms your child may be feeling. According to Chinese medicine, CFS is caused by imbalances in a patient's energy force or "Qi." Acupuncturists try to restore the flow of this vitality-driving energy, which is said to increase the body's ability to heal itself. Many people battling CFS report increased energy within the first few acupuncture visits, with long-term energy increases as they continue treatment. While Chinese practitioners believe it's important to treat the symptoms of CFS, they are also concerned with the long-term benefits of restoring healthy balance to the child's Qi.
4. Seek Counseling Support
CFS can be especially difficult for children to cope with, since they often lack the energy to do the things their friends are doing. Many kids go through a period of mourning their loss of energy, increasing malaise and changing friendships. Remember that this is normal and that your child needs someone to talk with about her frustrations. Therapists trained in pediatrics and chronic disease can help your child adapt to life changes, cope with her sadness and anger, relate to friends and manage symptoms more effectively. A trained professional can also help family members deal with the difficulties of adapting to a child's chronic illness.
5. Talk With Your Doctor About Pharmacotherapy Options
Because CFS is still an enigma, there are no FDA-approved drugs for the illness. Affected children may run an occasional fever and complain about overall body aches and pains in addition to fatigue, depression and other symptoms. Your child's physician may decide to experiment with antidepressants/tricyclics, antivirals, corticosteroids or immunoglobulins. Some patients receive mild relief from these medication classes, but need to be closely monitored for worsening symptoms or adverse reactions. Ask your doctor whether your child might benefit from over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen (Aleve), which have few adverse side effects and may offer temporary benefits.
