Chronic Fatigue & Exhaustion

Chronic fatigue lasting more than 6 months may indicate ME/CFS, autoimmune conditions, mitochondrial dysfunction, or metabolic disorders. Post-exertional malaise (PEM) — symptom worsening after minimal activity — is the hallmark of ME/CFS.

Body System: Systemic

Related Diseases

• Autoimmune Diseases — Fatigue is the most common symptom across lupus, RA, MS, and other autoimmune conditions.
• ALS — Fatigue from neuromuscular dysfunction compounds with respiratory muscle weakness.

Related Compounds

• NMN / NAD+
• Coenzyme Q10
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes chronic fatigue?

Chronic fatigue has multiple potential causes: mitochondrial dysfunction, viral triggers (EBV, SARS-CoV-2), autoimmune inflammation, hormonal imbalances (thyroid, adrenal), sleep disorders, and metabolic conditions. Comprehensive workup should include CBC, thyroid panel, inflammation markers, and sleep study.

What is post-exertional malaise (PEM)?

PEM is the worsening of symptoms 12-72 hours after physical or cognitive exertion that would be tolerated by healthy individuals. It's the hallmark symptom of ME/CFS and distinguishes it from general deconditioning. Pacing strategies are the primary management approach.

Can mitochondrial supplements help with fatigue?

CoQ10 supports electron transport chain Complex I-III. NMN/NAD+ precursors restore age-related NAD+ decline. Alpha-lipoic acid is a mitochondrial cofactor. D-ribose supports ATP regeneration. These address the bioenergetic deficit seen in ME/CFS and autoimmune fatigue, though response varies.