Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is the most common name given to a variably debilitating disorder generally defined by persistent fatigue unrelated to exertion. This persistent fatigue is not substantially relieved by rest and is not accompanied by the presence of other specific symptoms lasting for a minimum of six months.
To begin peeling back the layers and correcting the symptoms of always being tired, a Functional Medicine Practitioner and Clinical Nutritionist will first look at all of the possibilities that can contribute to such a cumbersome condition. Most patients with chronic fatigue have more than one functional problem contributing to the overall symptom presentation. Fortunately, Dr. Shaw specializes in working with the functional changes in your body to correct the cause of the symptoms and remove the presence of low energy metabolism.
In working with a Functional Medicine Doctor and Clinical Nutritionist you will hear the word “functional” quite a bit. What we are referring to is that not all problems show up in your blood work, and there may be a more subtle change in your system that is not bad enough to raise the red flags for your medical doctor. Correcting Chronic Fatigue with nutrition is a perfect example:
There are many sources of challenges to the body that can manifest as a chronic fatigue syndrome. Unresolved viruses, un-diagnosed lymes disease, exposure to molds, toxic metal syndrome, underlying fungal infections, depression, mood related disorders, food sensitivities, leaky gut syndrome, hormone imbalances, combined chemical allergies, functional thyroid problems, seasonal allergies and chronic stress levels are just a few of the potential causes that can combine and contribute to a debilitating fatigue. In Pittsburgh, it is amazing how many challenges there are in our immediate environment that can be corrected by working with an experienced Functional Medicine Clinical Nutritionist.
It is important to note that when your medical history and health related goals are explored, your consultations are held directly with Dr. Shaw, not an untrained individual, a staff member, a questionnaire or a computer program. You will not be signing up for a “program” and paying money up front for services not yet rendered. Your health care journey in our office is unique to your specific needs.
Dr. Shaw looks forward to working with you to identify the source of your chronic fatigue symptoms.— Dr. Conan Shaw Functional Medicine, Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Pittsburgh PA