Guide to Understanding The Influence of Environmental Factors on Chronic Fatigue

Understanding the Link Between Environment and Fatigue

Chronic fatigue Syndrome is a condition characterised by prolonged fatigue, which does not get better with rest or food. Chronic fatigue is caused by many factors, even though the exact cause is unknown. The factors responsible for the development of CFS include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Viral infections
• Immune system dysfunction
• Stress and anxiety
• Central nervous system abnormalities
• Hormone imbalances
• Exposure to toxins

Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as toxins, can cause your body to suffer from chronic fatigue, and here is where the impact of environmental factors plays a role in balancing your health. 

Identifying the Environmental Triggers for Fatigue

Certain chemicals and toxins are known to trigger CFS as they adversely affect your body, causing various immune system abnormalities, negatively affecting hormones and causing Central nervous system(CNS) disturbances resulting in pain and prolonged body exhaustion. It is also important to note that since most of us get exposed to these environmental factors, which may include toxins and chemicals, it is not easy to point out which are the ‘exact causes’ of CFS. However, environmental toxins play an essential role in the development of CFS as the mode of transmission of these factors is direct.

Climate, Weather, and Fatigue Levels: Connecting the Dots

Studies have shown an inevitable connection between extreme climatic changes and weather patterns, causing physical and psychological impacts. The adverse effects of heat waves- extreme heat and precipitation directly and indirectly impact health. Heat stress is associated with various conditions affecting Physical health and mental health, including:

• Mood disorders
• Anxiety
• Risk of preterm delivery in pregnant women
• Reduced IQ
• Incidence of prolonged fatigue

The study also shows that exposure to extreme heat can lead to physical and psychological fatigue. Also, what is more surprising is that a clear association was found between warming temperatures in early summer and rising suicide rates.

Impact of Pollution on Your Fatigue Levels

In a report made on the case study of Environmental Exposures as a Potential Underlying Factor in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, many commonly found substances tagged under the ‘ environmental pollutants’ are known to be linked to central nervous system and mitochondrial damage. (Mitochondria is the powerhouse of your cell).

The exposure to these substances and the extent of exposure will determine the bioaccumulation of these toxins in your body, triggering immune system dysfunctions and Central Nervous System disturbances. Air and water pollution are common routes of exposure in both our homes and workplaces.

These environmental pollutants include:

• Volatile solvents used in industrial processes.
• Inhalation or ingestion of car exhaust, paints, glues, adhesives, and lacquer thinners. 
• Solvents used in paints, furniture, and the manufacture of other household products.
• Degreasing agents.
• Inks or toners.
• Pharmaceutical wastes.
• Additives to gasoline.
• Poisonous gases emitted from vehicles.

The report points out that exposure to these environmental pollutants negatively impacts your innate detoxification pathway and causes various conditions, including chronic fatigue, atrophy of skeletal muscles, muscle weakness, loss of coordination, vision problems, and depression of the central nervous system.

Mitigating Fatigue with Healthy Lifestyle Practices

Healthy lifestyle practices can include making certain modifications to your daily routine. Besides making mindful choices on food and exercise, coping with the changing environment is also essential.

• Use of highly protective masks when you get out outdoors, especially in areas where pollution is prevalent, can help you reduce your exposure to air pollutants.
   
• Handwashing and sanitisers can help keep your hands clean when in doubt of contact with undesirable objects.
   
• Carry water bottles and umbrellas whenever you get out in the sun to reduce sun exposure and dehydration. 
   
• Hydrate your body with fresh juices and fruits with water content.
   
• Last, a collective effort can only make our environment a better place to live, as climatic changes and unpredictable weather patterns result from prolonged pollution and industrialisation. 
   
• Start reducing, reusing and recycling things and make them a part of your lifestyle.

Wrapping it Up!

It is essential to understand that environmental factors can directly and indirectly affect your health, and it is necessary to track down the triggers of CFS in the environment, even though most of us are exposed. Connect with our Nirva health experts to explore more lifestyle tips and tricks.