Do you have chronic fatigue syndrome? Here’s how it impacts heart health

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating condition characterized by persistent fatigue that is not alleviated by rest and is accompanied by a range of other symptoms. While the exact cause of CFS remains unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of factors including viral infections, immune system dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and genetic predisposition.
One significant aspect of CFS is its impact on the autonomic nervous system (ANS).The ANS plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. In individuals with CFS, dysfunction of the ANS can lead to alterations in blood pressure control. This dysregulation can result in fluctuations in blood pressure, including both hypotension (low blood pressure) and hypertension (high blood pressure). These fluctuations can pose significant risks to heart health, as hypertension is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have autonomic dysfunction which can lead to alterations in blood pressure control and creates a positive inflammatory state in the body. An increase in the oxidative stress leads to an increase in chances of having a Heart Attack, resistance to anti hypertensive medications & increase in incidence of arrhythmia like Atrial Fibrillation. Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome also tend to develop impaired glucose tolerance leading to metabolic syndrome. An early diagnosis and management of chronic fatigue syndrome helps in preventing long term life threatening complications.

Dr Anesh Jain Consultant Cardiologist Ruby ahall Clinic Wanowrie says, “Moreover, the dysregulation of the ANS in CFS contributes to a positive inflammatory state in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as it can damage blood vessels and promote the formation of plaques in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. Additionally, the increase in oxidative stress in individuals with CFS further compounds these risks. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. This oxidative damage can affect the cardiovascular system, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events.”

Furthermore, individuals with CFS may experience resistance to anti-hypertensive medications, making it challenging to manage their blood pressure effectively. This resistance can further exacerbate the risk of cardiovascular complications and complicate treatment strategies. Additionally, CFS is associated with an increased incidence of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, which can further strain the heart and increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.

In addition to these direct effects on the cardiovascular system, CFS can also impact metabolic health. Many individuals with CFS develop impaired glucose tolerance, which can progress to metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Metabolic syndrome significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, further underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and management of CFS.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can have profound implications for heart health. By affecting the autonomic nervous system, promoting inflammation and oxidative stress, and contributing to metabolic dysfunction, CFS increases the risk of cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks, hypertension, arrhythmias, and metabolic syndrome. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management strategies are essential to mitigate these risks and improve the long-term prognosis for individuals with CFS.