For many sufferers of fatigue, chronic infections can play a significant role.

Oftentimes underdiagnosed, bacterial, fungal, viral and parasitic infections strip the body of vitality and energy and exhaust an immune system constantly driving to ward them off.

Infections can be present all throughout the body and require a combination of attention to one’s symptoms and labs to determine which are relevant in the individual.

You may or may not have heard of some of the chronic infections that are associated with fatigue oriented conditions. They are in fact commonplace, although they are not widely recognised and given the requisite attention they deserve.

Vector-borne

Bacterial infections can be present following a tick bite in the form of Lyme disease, while a transmission of Lyme from a tick or insect can also bring along with it multiple other infectious organisms, known as co-infections. Co-infections such as bartonella, rickettsia and babesia bring about unique symptoms with the overarching symptom being fatigue.

Sinus and dental

Hidden infections in the mouth or sinuses can also go unnoticed, often showing only as persistent fatigue.

Viruses

Viruses are another major category of infections that are strongly associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, autoimmunity and fibromyalgia.

Common culprits include the Epstein-Barr virus, Human Herpes Virus 6, Parvovirus, Coxsackie, Enterovirus, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Mycoplasma, Cytomegalovirus and mosquito-borne viruses.

Others

Parasites and yeast infections can also make themselves at home, driving fatigue and other debilitating symptoms in their hosts.

With the right interventions and overall immune support, infections can be overcome leading to a freeing up of energy and the dampening down of the cell danger response.

Do you experience any of the symptoms associated with these infections? Have you been tested for and explored any of these infections?

If you are struggling with fatigue, do not negate this potential part of your fatigue puzzle.

You can find other ME/CFS related blogs here.