Allergic tension-fatigue syndrome

What is Allergic Tension-Fatigue Syndrome?

Everyperson experiences periods of tiredness or fatigue during the normal course of the day. These periods are affected by the types of food consumed during the day, the stimulants (such as coffee or sugary foods) consumed and the levels of bodily activity. The main cause of fatigue during the day stems from the food consumed and the body's reaction to it, known as food allergy. As the body digests starches, proteins and food additives, it can react to these substances. This reaction sometimes causes imbalances or disorders, which can be as minor as an irritation or as major as anaphylactic shock, a potentially deadly condition.

Severefood allergies can lead to the allergic tension-fatigue disorder, which causes tiredness and stress which is unrelated to physical tiredness due to bodily exertion and lack of energy. Both children and adults can suffer from this type of fatigue. Food allergy is generally caused by a variety of foods, but links have been found that point to wheat, chocolate, corn and milk as major contributors.

Symptomsof the Syndrome

Symptomsof the allergic tension-fatigue syndrome seem to be symptoms of other afflictions, such as simple headaches. This can lead to a misdiagnosis of the problem. Major symptoms include constant stomach pain, lethargy and tendency towards general fatigue, infection or congestion in the nasal cavity, headaches or migraines and insomnia.

Othermental issues that can become problems due to food allergies include inability to maintain memories, flawed concentration and general slowing of cerebral function. Related symptoms, such as muscle soreness or involuntary contractions and depression may also bepresent.

Diagnosisand Treatment

Medicalprofessionals will sometimes require details about a patient's medical history, as well as blood tests and a full physical exam. A six to eight week diet designed to eliminate possible causes of the syndrome is preferred for a more precise diagnosis, during which time no antihistamines should be taken to allow allergic manifestations to show up more clearly. Other chronic problems (such as diabetes) may be related to the allergy, and in some cases the allergy is completely misdiagnosed as a vitamin B12 deficiency or Restless LegSyndrome.

Once the diagnosis is complete, and the type of food causing the allergy is determined, it must be completely eliminated from the patient's diet. It is advised to check labels on food packagings to discover ingredients to which the patient can potentially react. Problems with constant fatigue or tension must be taken seriously and reported to a doctor for further analysis to rule out or perhaps diagnose allergic tension-fatigue syndrome.