Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research

In order to better understand chronic fatigue syndrome, research is being conducted on several different fronts. Some of the research currently under way includes studies looking at a possible link between chronic fatigue syndrome and depression. Other research studies are examining the effect of disrupted sleep may have on symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Research is also being conducted (or has been conducted) on experimental treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome such as Ampligen, dehydroepiandrosterone, and corticosteroids.

Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research: An Overview

Doctors and scientists all over the country are conducting chronic fatigue syndrome research. Chronic fatigue syndrome research studies are designed to answer important questions and to find out whether new approaches are safe and effective. Already, chronic fatigue syndrome research has led to many advances, and researchers are continuing to search for more effective methods of living with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or CFIDS).

Current Focus of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research

Chronic fatigue syndrome research scientists are focusing on:

Long-term studies on patients with CFS.
Hormones (especially cytokines) and the neuroendocrine system, which is involved in how the body reacts to stress.
Infectious agents in people with chronic fatigue syndrome and how the body responds to these agents.
How disturbed sleep and pain reactions affect chronic fatigue syndrome. Some experts think that disrupted sleep may cause many of the chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms.
The severity of pain in women and men. Some researchers believe that women may experience pain differently than men, as well as have different reactions to drugs.
The link between chronic fatigue syndrome and depression.
Finding better approaches to dealing with fatigue.

(Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research Continued: Page 2)