Body Clock Shift May Be Linked to Chronic Fatigue

Fatigue often is associated with acute and chronic illnesses. The reason for that has puzzled researchers for a long time. Fatigue commonly is linked to the onset of flu or colds. Fatigue also accompanies many chronic illnesses including chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases.

In a new study reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers determined that the cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha or TNF-alpha (an immune system protein) may be connected to daytime fatigue.

Researchers believe that, aside from known immune system functions of TNF-alpha, the cytokine may also disrupt the normal body clock (i.e., normal sleep/wake cycles). With acute illness, fatigue may play a significant short-term role, but with long-term illness it's problematic. The new findings regarding the role of TNF-alpha may lead to new therapeutic options and not necessarily in the form of medication. Exercise is one way of reducing fatigue symptoms. Other lifestyle modifications or behavioral changes may also affect the body clock.

Related Resources:

• 10 Ways to Fight Fatigue
• I'm Tired of Being Tired
• How to Manage Your Energy
• 7 Steps to Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Persistent Fatigue Leaves Patients Unrefreshed: Are There Solutions?

~ By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com Guides to Arthritis / Osteoarthritis

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