Зміст
Neurasthenia is a neurotic disorder that is still difficult to diagnose. It is most often confused with fatigue or depression. In addition to annoying mental ailments, it also manifests itself in physical problems. Doctors are alarming that this insidious disease of civilization is causing increasing damage in the era of the coronavirus pandemic. What is neurasthenia, and how does it manifest itself?
What is neurasthenia?
Neurasthenia is one of the most commonly diagnosed nervous disorders. It was probably first described in the second half of the 19th century by the American neurologist George Byrd. He defined the disease as a set of psychosomatic symptoms. However, to this day, the distinction between this disease and chronic fatigue syndrome is controversial in the medical community. Severe fatigue, inadequate to the lifestyle and activities performed, is the most characteristic symptom of neurasthenia. However, other symptoms also help diagnose the condition.
Symptoms of neurasthenia
The main symptoms of neurasthenia are unreasonable (not associated with hard work or strenuous physical activity) and chronic fatigue, which even interferes with normal functioning and persists for more than three months. People with this disease very often have problems with memory and concentration, as well as sudden mood swings (for example, outbursts of crying and anger, irritation, constant nervousness). Sleep disturbances (insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, waking up at night) and increased sensitivity to loud sounds or bright light are also common.
Neurasthenia also causes a number of other symptoms known as somatic symptoms. Some people have relatively frequent headaches, muscle and joint pain, heart palpitations (as well as chest pain), hyperhidrosis, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea, and other diseases of the digestive system (including abdominal pain). Tingling and numbness in the body, usually in the face or limbs, are also rare but disturbing symptoms.
Causes of neurasthenia
Although neurasthenia is affecting more and more people, it is still impossible to definitively determine its causes. The disease is thought to be the result of nervous overload, such as prolonged or severe stress and mental exhaustion. Genetic burden (mental disorders are often inherited) and hormonal disorders can be a risk factor. The disease can also result from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety disorders. It is worth knowing that it is usually diagnosed in people between the ages of 20 and 55. Most often, people with higher education and working in leadership positions are affected. This may indicate that chronic work stress significantly affects the development of neurasthenia.
Doctors are alarming that the ongoing coronavirus pandemic could affect more people with neurasthenia. Fear for your own health and the health of your loved ones or fear of losing sources of income, combined with isolation, can lead to a number of mental disorders. Therefore, in case of a fall in mood, especially if it proceeds against the background of somatic symptoms, you should consult a doctor or therapist. To protect yourself from illness, you should contact your loved ones as often as possible, exercise and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Treatment of neurasthenia
Diagnosis of neurasthenia is also aimed at excluding other diseases, mainly hormonal disorders, nutritional deficiencies, depression or problems with the circulatory system. Treatment of neurasthenia is based primarily on psychotherapy. Relaxation techniques and regular physical activity are also helpful. If work-related stress is the cause of your illness, you may need to change it. Pharmacological agents with antidepressant action are used very rarely.
