Feeling drained all the time isn’t just frustrating; it can seriously disrupt your work, relationships, and everyday routines. Chronic fatigue is more than being tired after a long day; it’s a deep, ongoing exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest and can last for months or even years. This is a reality for as many as 3.3 million people in the United States who are living with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), a complex condition that often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood.
Whether your low energy is new or something you’ve been managing for a while, it’s important to know what might be causing it, how doctors diagnose it, and what chronic fatigue treatments can actually help.
Read on to break down some of the most searched questions about chronic fatigue so you can get a clearer picture of what’s going on and what to do next, including where to find the best personalized healthcare in Beverly Hills for the most effective treatment.
What Is Chronic Fatigue and How Is It Different from Normal Tiredness?
Everyone feels tired from time to time, but chronic fatigue is something entirely different. It’s a lasting exhaustion that sticks around for six months or more and doesn’t get better with rest or a good night’s sleep. Many people with this type of fatigue may have a condition called chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS).
This isn’t just about being worn out. It often comes with a mix of other frustrating symptoms like:
- Brain fog
- Joint or muscle pain
- Sleep that doesn’t leave you feeling refreshed
One of the most distinct features of ME/CFS is something called post-exertional malaise, which means even small amounts of physical or mental effort can make symptoms worse for days. It’s a condition that extends far beyond feeling tired and can have a profound impact on daily life.
What Causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic fatigue can have many possible causes, which is one reason it can be so hard to figure out. For some people, it starts after a viral infection like the flu, mono, or COVID-19, especially in cases of Long COVID, where symptoms like extreme tiredness linger for months after the illness is gone. Others may have underlying conditions such as autoimmune disorders, hormonal imbalances, or mental health issues like depression or anxiety that wear the body down over time.
Even day-to-day habits can play a role. Poor sleep, a lack of key nutrients like iron or vitamin D, and constant stress can all make it harder for your body to recover and recharge. In many cases, it’s a combination of these factors that slowly drains your energy and makes you feel like you're running on empty.
How Is Chronic Fatigue Diagnosed?
Getting diagnosed with chronic fatigue can feel frustrating because there’s no single test that gives a clear answer. Instead, top concierge doctors in Beverly Hills typically begin with a thorough physical examination and inquire about your symptoms, medical history, and the duration of your symptoms. They’ll also often order bloodwork, check your thyroid levels, and sometimes recommend a sleep study to rule out other conditions like anemia, thyroid disease, or sleep apnea that could be causing your tiredness.
What Are the Best Treatments for Chronic Fatigue?
Treating chronic fatigue isn’t about finding one quick fix; it’s usually a mix of different approaches that work together over time.
- Graded activity, which involves slowly and carefully increasing movement without overexertion, is where most people start when trying to find what treatment works best for them.
- Getting better sleep is also a crucial part of recovery, whether that consists of establishing a consistent bedtime routine or consulting a doctor to address sleep-related issues.
- Mental health care, like counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help manage the emotional side of feeling worn out all the time.
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor might also recommend medications for things like pain, depression, or trouble sleeping. One of the most helpful tools is learning to pace yourself. A personalized healthcare physician can help you understand when to rest, how to plan your day, and how to avoid pushing too hard so you don’t crash later.
Why See a Concierge Doctor for Chronic Fatigue?
Concierge doctors can be especially helpful because they have more time to dig into your symptoms and run in-depth tests that might be overlooked in a rushed visit. Keeping a simple symptom journal, where you track your energy levels, sleep patterns, diet, stress levels, and any noticeable changes, can provide your doctor with valuable clues. The sooner you get answers, the sooner you can start a treatment plan that helps you feel more like yourself again.
Finding the Best Concierge Physician in Beverly Hills for Chronic Fatigue Treatment
Most doctor visits feel rushed, but what if your healthcare experience felt more like a thoughtful conversation than a checklist? At Concierge Health LA, we believe that great healthcare starts with a genuine connection. Dr. William Pittman and our team take the time to get to know you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms.
With same-day appointments, direct access to your doctor, and advanced tools like wearable health technology and home monitoring devices to help you stay ahead of potential health issues, we offer personalized care plans tailored to your unique needs. This unique approach to healthcare is as personal as it is proactive for those in Los Angeles, including Century City and West Hollywood.
Ready to get to the bottom of your chronic fatigue symptoms with the best concierge doctor in Beverly Hills?
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