What causes chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia (FMS)?

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  1. Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum
     
    Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum answered:
    CFS/FMS acts as a “circuit breaker,” with the hypothalamus decreasing its function to protect the individual in the face of what is perceived to be an overwhelming stress (just like blowing a fuse or circuit breaker in a house). This center controls sleep, hormones, temperature, blood flow, blood pressure and sweating. In addition, if your muscles do not have enough energy, they will get stuck in the shortened position and you’ll be in pain (think rigor mortis).  This “energy crisis” can be caused by any of a number of infections, stresses or injuries.
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    CFS/FMS acts as a “circuit breaker,” with the hypothalamus decreasing its function to protect the individual in the face of what is perceived to be an overwhelming stress (just like blowing a fuse or circuit breaker in a house).... More