Nervous exhaustion

Various neuroses, neurasthenia, fatigue - a scourge of modern life. Most people are forced to experience the constant impact of stress, overload, negative emotions, etc. Lack of rest, sleep, intense work can lead sooner or later to a state of nervous exhaustion, or, in other words, nervous and emotional fatigue.

[1], [2], [3],

Causes of the nervous exhaustion

In the human body, there are hidden resources - it is a kind of "stock" of nutrients, hormones, immune or trace elements that can be used only in case of emergency. Such an extreme situation can result from severe or prolonged stress, overwork, shock, trauma, surgical intervention, excessive emotional state.

Usually the state of stress enables a person to get together, get over himself and cope with the problem. However, if the hidden reserve of resources is already consumed, and the stressful state does not stop, then nervous exhaustion may occur.

The main immediate cause of exhaustion is fatigue: physical, moral, emotional, physiological, etc. Such fatigue is not instantaneous - with the exhaustion of the nervous system, the condition is aggravated with each passing day, gradually increasing and assuming a chronic course. Sooner or later it can degenerate into depression.

[4], [5],

Pathogenesis

The mechanism of the development of the disease consists in the exhaustion of the protective resources of the organism. Let's explain this scheme in action.

The nervous system is exhausted. With anxious and strenuous emotions, the CNS sends the appropriate signals to the cardiovascular, immune and endocrine systems. For the body, the work of these systems for a while becomes a priority, causing the function of other organs - for example, digestion or the genital sphere.

The endocrine system is exhausted. Constantly stimulated by stress, the endocrine function also fails. The production of hormones occurs with impairments. As a result - disorders in the thyroid gland, ovaries, pancreas, adrenal gland begin.

The function of the cardiovascular system is disrupted. Prolonged stress of the heart and blood vessels causes heart rhythm disorder, blood pressure instability and other problems.

The possibilities of the body's defenses are dwindling. A prolonged stressful situation leads to paralysis of immunity, which leads to an exacerbation of chronic diseases and the emergence of new infectious and inflammatory processes - this can be candidiasis, dysbacteriosis, erosive lesions (eg, cervical uteri), rheumatism, joint and muscle diseases, skin pathologies.

Dysfunction of the digestive system. The most characteristic development of dysbacteriosis, ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, irritable bowel syndrome or chronic enterocolitis.

[6], [7], [8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13]

Symptoms of the nervous exhaustion

Nervous exhaustion grows imperceptibly and at first looks like ordinary fatigue. However, gradually this condition accumulates and then unnoticed for the patient turns into a pathology, which should be treated by a qualified specialist in psychotherapy.

The first signs of malfunctions with the body a person can see for himself, just listening attentively to yourself:

• persistent fatigue;
• sleep disorders: the patient can not fall asleep, despite a drowsy condition during the day;
• the appearance of an inexplicable sense of anxiety, pessimism;
• the appearance of intermittent palpitations, an imbalance in blood pressure;
• increased sensitivity to external irritating factors (loud sounds, bright light, sharp aroma, etc.);
• recurring headaches;
• pain in the legs, hands, back (of unknown origin);
• unreasonable increase in temperature indicators;
• uncomfortable condition in the stomach or intestine;
• off-season exacerbation of chronic diseases (angina, gastritis, sinusitis, etc.).

Also, there are symptoms, which often pay attention to the family and friends of the patient:

• a person becomes irritable, he can be irritated by the environment or behavior of his relatives, and he himself;
• a person becomes impatient, he begins to get nervous already on the first minutes of forced waiting;
• there is an increased sensitivity to extraneous aromas, sounds, flashes of light;
• sleep becomes sensitive and disturbing, a person often wakes from nightmares, groans in a dream, and in the morning does not feel the tide of vigor and energy;
• even with a small load, there is headache and weakness;
• the character of a person changes - there is uncertainty, self-esteem falls;
• there are violations in the sexual sphere (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, impotence, etc.);
• the patient takes up a lot, but nothing can bring to the end, becomes inattentive, distracted, memory and concentration of attention worsens;
• there may be fluctuations in weight, loss or increase in appetite, there is always a bad mood.

The clinical picture can be divided into three stages:

• Hypersthenic stage: the patient is irritable, fussy. He himself understands that something is happening to him, but he can not cope on his own. Often does not control his actions and emotions, provokes quarrels and conflicts. There is headache and muscle pain, lack of sleep, insomnia, lethargy and disability.
• The stage of irritating weakness: the patient becomes hot-tempered, but quickly departs. His thoughts are pessimistic, alarming. To headaches pain in the heart, digestive disorders, allergic reactions, dyspnea, dizziness are added.
• Hypostenic stage: the patient enters a state of apathy, nothing interesting to him, the mood is indifferent and depressed, close to depression.

Forms

• F48 - other neurotic disorders.
• F48.0 - neurasthenic disorder.
• F48.9 - neurotic disorder without clarification.

[14], [15], [16], [17], [18]

Complications and consequences

After suffering nervous exhaustion, the patient may experience complications of a social nature, as well as general health problems.

Often there are social problems, because a person changes character, an emotional response to what is happening around. Sometimes there is irritability and dissatisfaction. The patient can become locked in himself, become secretive.

The attitude to the surrounding world, to oneself becomes irreversible, which in the future can cause other problems of the mental plane. For example, depression and neurasthenia are two states that go side by side with each other. Often, this combination results in the illiterate prescription of drugs that do not soothe, and even more stimulate nervous activity, which only aggravates irritability, intensifies headaches and further depletes the nervous system. Such a development of symptoms can be associated with attempts at self-treatment.

Simultaneous nervous and physical exhaustion often accompanies workaholics - people for whom work is on the first place. Lack of proper rest, inability to relax, constant thoughts about the work process, and as a result - failures of cardiovascular functions, increased blood pressure (up to hypertensive crisis), chronic migraines, insomnia, a significant decrease in immunity. A person is constantly in a situation on the verge of total breakdown of the body, which can have a really unpredictable finale.

Constant stress and nervous exhaustion are the realities of our today's fussy life: all day we devote to work and professional activity, from morning till evening performing our duties, communicating with people, entering conflicts and contradictions. Often in the evening, instead of relaxing and relaxing, we again sit down at the computer (the brain continues to work), or we go to the club, where potential rest is also questionable - all the same communication with people, loud music, alcohol, relaxation from which is very deceptive . Gradually and unnoticeably, stress develops into chronic nervous exhaustion, which is difficult to combat - only a qualified psychotherapist will be able to help. However, unfortunately, not all people in this state are able to realize the necessity and importance of outside help. As a result, severe mental disorders develop, with obsessive ideas, manic psychoses and even personal degradation.

[19], [20], [21], [22]

Diagnostics of the nervous exhaustion

To establish an accurate diagnosis of nervous exhaustion, usually refer to a doctor-psychotherapist or psychiatrist. The specialist, as a rule, takes into account not only the presence of a mental disorder or neurological disorder, but also assesses the functional state of other body systems. Important importance is attached to such concepts as differential diagnosis and the sequence of diagnosis.

Laboratory tests are required:

• general blood analysis;
• blood chemistry;
• evaluation of the hormonal level;
• microelemental composition of blood;
• analysis for the use of various drugs and narcotic drugs;
• serological and immunological analysis of the blood picture;
• detailed analysis of urine.

In addition, instrumental diagnostics using encephalography and electrocardiography is carried out.

It may be necessary to consult other medical specialists:

• a neurologist;
• manual therapist and reflexotherapist;
• endocrinologist;
• cardiologist;
• therapist;
• the neurophysiologist;
• psychologist.

A general study may include the following methods:

• examination of blood and urine;
• assessment of the pulse, elimination of hypoxia;
• evaluation of blood pressure;
• 24-channel ECG;
• hardware method of examination of brain functions;
• EEG (with the use of evoked potentials and mapping);
• the usual EEG.

Correct and sufficient diagnosis plays a very important role in determining the patient's treatment regimen.

[23], [24], [25],

Treatment of the nervous exhaustion

An integrated approach must be applied to the treatment of the disease. For starters, it is important to apply the following rules in practice:

• detect and neutralize the cause of exhaustion - eliminate family conflicts, avoid stress and psychological trauma, change jobs or positions, take leave, change the situation, etc .;
• if it is not possible to change the place of work, it is necessary to correctly reorganize the mode of work and rest, in which a place should be set aside for relaxation and active pastime;
• take measures to stabilize the night rest - get up and go to bed at the same time, avoid eating caffeine and alcohol, and overeating (especially at night);
• try to walk more in the fresh air, relax actively (swim, play mobile games, etc.);
• establish regular and adequate nutrition;
• to establish a regular sex life;
• learn to relax properly - this can be facilitated by light music, meditation, yoga, a warm bath, outdoor recreation, etc.

The correct approach to treatment almost always guarantees full recovery of the patient.

Drug therapy is prescribed exclusively by a doctor. The following medicines and medicines can be used:

• Means that promote vasodilation (Mexidol, Tanakan), are used to relieve spasm in headaches. As a result of taking such drugs, normal blood circulation in the brain is restored, oxygen starvation of cells is eliminated, and recovery is accelerated.
• Preparations for the acceleration of metabolic processes in the brain are plant remedies based on natural constituents that help the restoration of neurons.
• Nootropic drugs (nootropil, piracetam, ceraxon, etc.) are prescribed only by a doctor and are taken under his strict control, as they can stimulate the psyche and aggravate some of the symptoms.
• Vitamin complexes (of course, the necessary drugs, we'll talk about them separately).
• Soothing means (valerian, motherwort, novopassit, fitosed, etc.) can relieve nervous tension, improve sleep, calm the nervous system.
• Antidepressants are prescribed by the doctor in the presence of symptoms of depression and depressed mood.

It is very common to prescribe benzodiazepines - psychoactive drugs that inhibit the central nervous system. Such medications have sleeping pills, sedatives, miorelaxing and anti-seizure properties, and also reduce feelings of anxiety and fear. Among the benzodiazepines are the most known drugs such as Valium, Diazepam, Nosepam, Lorazepam, Chlozepid, Ativan, etc. The dosage and duration of the medication is determined by a specialist, since treatment with them can lead to the development of drug dependence.

In addition to traditional treatment, homeopathy has often been used lately. Among the most common homeopathic remedies are Calcaria Fos, Magnesia Fos, Cali Fos, Natrum Moore, Lycopodium, Anacardium, Baritou Karb, Tsinkum Met, Sulfur, Nuks Vomica, Selenium, Agnus C.

Vitamins in nervous exhaustion

Vitamins and complex multivitamin preparations at an early stage can fully stabilize the mental and emotional balance of a person. Known a number of substances that have a direct effect on the nervous system. These include vitamins of group B, A, D, E and ascorbic acid.

Vitamin A and provitamin A help to improve sleep and concentration, inhibit the aging of neurons and other cellular structures, reduce excitability and stabilize appetite. The main sources of carotene and retinol are fruits and vegetables of orange color, as well as sea buckthorn, cod liver, egg yolk egg, butter.

Vitamins of group B are considered to be specific vitamins for the nervous system, since their action is aimed at its strengthening and recovery. A person who is exposed to daily stress and mental overload, these vitamins are needed especially. Doctors recommend taking a complex of B vitamins, not each separately. The most optimal combination is the complex preparation Vitrum Superstress - it contains all the necessary elements for maintaining and restoring the health of the nervous system.

• Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is a natural antidepressant, helps restore mental ability. To replenish thiamine stocks, it is recommended to eat buckwheat, beans, lentils, rice, oatmeal and dairy products.
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) prevents the occurrence of fatigue, headaches, weakness. Riboflavin is found in sufficient quantities in nuts, dairy products, liver, as well as in the vitamin complex preparation Nutrilight, which is often recommended to children.
• Vitamin B3 (niacin) enhances cerebral circulation, promotes regression of signs of neurological and mental diseases. Of food, niacin is present in mushrooms, legumes, nuts, cereals and chicken. This vitamin is included in many tranquilizing drugs designed to eliminate eating disorders, depressive conditions.
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) reduces the overall excitement, promotes the production of serotonin. Contained in nuts, berries, sea buckthorn, seafood, garnets. For better assimilation of pyridoxine, the presence of ascorbic acid is necessary. The most known complex preparations with B6 content are Magne-B6 and B-complex.
• Vitamin B9 (folic acid) restores the energy potential of the body, improves memory, eliminates anxiety and a sense of fear. Contained in broccoli, carrots, liver, as well as in pharmacy drugs Complivit, Supradin, Neuromultivitis.
• Vitamin B11 (Levocarnitine) strengthens the immune system, stabilizes the function of the muscular, cardiovascular system and brain. Vitamin B11 can be found in fish and meat products, milk, sprouted wheat grains.
• Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) prevents damage to nerve fibers, eliminates signs of depression and sclerosis. It is part of the multivitamins Duovit, Vitamineral, Polivit.

A good complex preparation that contains most of the B vitamins is Milgamma, a remedy for improving microcirculation, stabilizing the nervous system, and facilitating nerve conduction. The drug is taken 1 tablet per day, or injected intramuscularly, 2 ml (1 ampoule) once a day. The course of treatment is 30 days.

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) improves protective forces, resists stress, improves mood, helps with nervous experiences. Vitamin C is included in most complex preparations: Vitrum, Elevit, Alphabet, Multitabs. A lot of it and in products: greens, citrus, kiwi, berries, dogrose.

Diet with nervous exhaustion should contain all of the listed vitamins, so you need to diversify the daily menu, in the first place, vegetable food, cereals, seafood. To reduce the burden on the nervous system, it is recommended to reduce the total intake of simple carbohydrates and fatty foods, as well as salty foods. Fresh baking is better to replace with dark varieties of bread and biscuits, and sausages and semi-finished products - low-fat meat. It is advisable to exclude the use of caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, spices. Preference should be given to drinks from rose hips, fresh juices, compotes. Dishes should be prepared from healthy foods: vegetables, dairy products, cereals, legumes, with the addition of vegetable oil.

Alternative treatment of nervous exhaustion

Of course, in advanced cases of nervous diseases, herbal therapy is unlikely to help, but in the early stages and as an additional treatment can be very helpful.

• Infusion of grass astragalus tones and soothes the nervous system. To prepare the infusion, you need to take 1.5 tablespoons of dry raw materials and insist an hour and a half in 250 ml of boiling water. Take up to 4 times a day for 2 tablespoons. L. Before meals.
• Infusion of leaves and rhizomes of the black letter will help with headaches caused by stress. For 500 ml of boiling water you need to take 1 tbsp. Raw materials, insist an hour and a half. Drink should be 100 ml to 4 times a day before meals.
• It is useful to add cucumber grass to salads and ready meals - this is an excellent sedative that removes nervous overexcitation.
• The infusion of rhizome of valerian is a proven remedy for maintaining nervous balance. It is necessary to insist 2 tsp. Rhizomes in a thermos bottle with 250 ml of boiling water overnight. Drink 1 tbsp. L. Up to 4 times a day before meals, you can with honey.
• Spore infusion is recommended to take to strengthen the nervous system, especially the elderly. Insist 1 tbsp. L. Raw materials in 500 ml of boiling water for one and a half hours, drink 100-150 ml to 4 times a day before meals.
• The infusion of angelica roots is an effective restorative and sedative that works well for insomnia. At 1 tbsp. L. Rhizomes take 500 ml of boiling water and insist up to 2 hours, drink 100 ml in a warm form 3 times a day before meals.

Treatment with alternative drugs must necessarily be combined with diet. It is also very important to eliminate the main cause of the appearance of nervous exhaustion: avoid stress, do not overwork, adjust the schedule of sleep and rest.

[26], [27]

Prevention

• Do not overwork, think about your health, which is not infinite. After work (for example, in a car or at home), try to include calm music: sounds of nature, relaxation, lounge collections.
• Listen to yourself, do introspection. Find time to go out on a weekly basis to nature, meet with friends and not think about work. Remember: all the problems in our lives are contrived, we create them ourselves in order to spend time and health to solve them. But if the problems really accumulated, write them down on paper and decide consistently, in proportion to their importance.
• Do not forget to eat and rest fully. Instead of the phrase "work - first of all," think "health first", and your condition will be much better.
• Try to establish a sleep without using sleeping pills: stroll at night, give up coffee and strong tea in the second half of the day, do not revise extreme news and programs before going to bed, do not play computer games.
• Take time to exercise, walk, come up with a hobby.
• Take in the morning a contrast shower, and in the evening - a warm bath with soothing herbs.

If you follow all of the above tips, then the problems with the nerves are likely to bypass you. When the diagnosis of depletion of the nervous system is already set, then you are advised to strictly follow all the advice and prescriptions of the doctor to fully recover.

If the nervous exhaustion is not treated, then the disease itself will not disappear: in the future, the condition worsens, depression and other neuropsychic disorders may occur.

[28], [29], [30], [31], [32]