Chronic Fatigue

Why Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Needs a New Approach

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is more than just feeling tired. It’s a deeply complex condition that leaves millions struggling with extreme exhaustion, brain fog, and pain that no amount of sleep can fix. At Patients Medical in New York City, we use a unique integrative approach to uncover and treat the root causes—so you can reclaim your energy and your life.

We treat the whole person—not just the fatigue.

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

CFS is a long-term, disabling condition marked by overwhelming fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental activity. It often coexists with immune, neurological, hormonal, and digestive dysfunctions, making it difficult to diagnose and treat through conventional methods alone.

Core Characteristics:
  • Severe, persistent fatigue not relieved by rest
  • Post-exertional malaise (crash after activity)
  • Brain fog and memory problems
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Dizziness or orthostatic intolerance
  • Sensitivity to light, noise, or chemicals

 

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Common Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Symptoms may fluctuate and worsen with stress, infections, or exertion. Common signs include:

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Chronic Fatigue?

In functional medicine, we focus on identifying the root causes rather than just masking symptoms. For CFS, we often uncover:

  • Viral reactivations (e.g., Epstein-Barr Virus, HHV-6)
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction (impaired cellular energy production)
  • Adrenal fatigue and low cortisol
  • Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut
  • Toxin accumulation (heavy metals, mold, pesticides)
  • Food intolerances and poor nutrient absorption
  • Thyroid and hormonal imbalances
  • Chronic inflammation or autoimmune activity
Chronic Fatigue Cause

Diagnostic Testing We Use

To uncover your unique biochemical imbalances, we offer advanced functional testing, including:

Mitochondrial function and organic acid testing

Adrenal saliva cortisol rhythm panels

Epstein-Barr and viral reactivation panels

Comprehensive stool and microbiome testing

Leaky gut and intestinal permeability markers

Heavy metal and mold toxicity tests

Thyroid and hormone panels

Nutrient deficiency assessments (B12, D, magnesium, CoQ10)

Integrative Treatments for Chronic Fatigue

Personalized Nutrition Therapy

  • Elimination of gluten, dairy, and processed foods
  • Mitochondrial-supportive nutrients (CoQ10, carnitine, B-vitamins)
  • Low-histamine or autoimmune protocols (when applicable)
  • Gut-rebuilding foods to restore microbiome balance

IV Nutrient Therapy

  • B-complex and magnesium
  • Vitamin C for immune support
  • Glutathione for detoxification
  • NAD+ for mitochondrial repair
  • Amino acids and electrolytes

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

  • Adaptogens: Rhodiola, ashwagandha, licorice
  • Antiviral herbs (e.g., olive leaf, monolaurin)
  • Mitochondrial boosters: D-ribose, CoQ10, PQQ
  • Anti-inflammatory agents: curcumin, omega-3s
  • Gut support: L-glutamine, probiotics, digestive enzymes

Stress & Sleep Support

  • Mindfulness and guided meditation
  • Acupuncture and craniosacral therapy
  • Melatonin and herbal sleep aids
  • Cortisol rebalancing protocols

Hormone and Thyroid Optimization

  • Thyroid (T3, T4, reverse T3)
  • Cortisol/DHEA
  • Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone (when appropriate)

Real Case Study: Reclaiming Energy – Asha’s Story

Asha, 42, had been bedridden most days for over a year. She had seen over a dozen doctors and was told her fatigue was “in her head.” At Patients Medical, our tests revealed:

  • Mitochondrial dysfunction
  • Elevated EBV titers
  • Adrenal exhaustion
  • Gut dysbiosis and low vitamin B12

Her personalized 4-month plan included:

  • IV NAD+ and glutathione weekly
  • Gut healing and antiviral supplements
  • Adaptogenic adrenal support
  • Anti-inflammatory diet

Within three months, Asha’s energy improved by 60%, she was able to return to part-time work, and her labs showed clear signs of progress.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

CFS is a legitimate, complex biomedical condition. While stress can worsen symptoms, the root causes are often physical—such as mitochondrial dysfunction, infections, and nutrient depletion.

Yes, many patients experience significant improvement—even full remission—by addressing the underlying causes through an integrative approach.

Yes, especially in the beginning. Our care works alongside your current medications and may reduce dependence over time with your doctor’s guidance.

Every case is different. Some people feel better in a few months, while others require longer. The key is consistency and personalized care.

PEM is a hallmark of CFS where even minor physical or mental exertion leads to a severe crash. We help patients learn pacing techniques and reduce inflammatory triggers.

Most patients benefit from short- to medium-term supplementation. Once the root causes are addressed, many can taper off under supervision.

Yes. Mold exposure, heavy metals, and chemicals can burden mitochondria and immune function. We test and treat for detox impairments

Gut infections, leaky gut, and microbiome imbalances often play a role in fatigue. Healing the gut is central to our approach.

While some medications may provide symptom relief, our focus is on addressing the root causes to minimize dependency on pharmaceuticals.

We are an out-of-network provider, but we offer superbills for reimbursement. Some labs may be partially covered by insurance.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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