Mycoplasmas are a type of bacteria that can cause a range of health issues, including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. However, recent research suggests that mycoplasmas may also play a role in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia, two debilitating conditions that affect millions of people worldwide.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition. In addition to fatigue, people with CFS may experience symptoms like muscle pain, joint pain, headaches, and cognitive difficulties.
The exact cause of CFS is unknown, but some researchers believe that infections may trigger the condition. Mycoplasma infections are one potential trigger, as they have been found in the blood of many people with CFS.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles and joints. In addition to pain, people with fibromyalgia may experience symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, and cognitive difficulties.
Like CFS, the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but mycoplasma infections have been implicated in some cases. Studies have found that people with fibromyalgia are more likely to have mycoplasma infections than people without the condition.
How do Mycoplasmas Contribute to CFS and Fibromyalgia?
The exact mechanism by which mycoplasmas contribute to CFS and fibromyalgia is not fully understood. However, researchers believe that mycoplasmas may trigger an immune response that leads to inflammation and other symptoms.
Mycoplasmas are known to be stealth pathogens, meaning they can evade detection by the immune system and persist in the body for long periods. This can lead to chronic inflammation and other immune system dysfunctions that may contribute to the development of CFS and fibromyalgia.
What Can Be Done?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or fibromyalgia and suspect that you may have a mycoplasma infection, it’s important to speak to a practitioner. At Elemental Health and Nutrition, I can guide how to treat mycoplasma infections with herbal and nutritional supplements, tailored to your specific type of infection and its severity.
Looking for a functional medicine specialist in Adelaide or a Chronic Fatigue Specialist in Adelaide? Contact Elemental Health and Nutrition to help you with your needs.