Nervous exhaustion

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

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Causes nervous exhaustion

The human body has its own hidden resources - a kind of "reserve" of nutrients, hormonal, immune or microelement substances that can be used only in case of extreme necessity. Such an extreme situation can arise as a result of severe or prolonged stress, overwork, shock, injury, surgery, or excessive emotional state.

Usually, a state of stress gives a person the opportunity to pull themselves together, pull themselves together and cope with the problem. However, if the hidden reserve of resources has already been used up, and the stressful state does not stop, then nervous exhaustion may occur.

The main direct cause of exhaustion is overfatigue: physical, moral, emotional, physiological, etc. Such fatigue is not instantaneous - with exhaustion of the nervous system, the condition worsens every day, gradually increasing and becoming chronic. Sooner or later, it can develop into depression.

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Pathogenesis

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

The nervous system is exhausted. In case of anxious and tense emotions, the central nervous system sends corresponding signals to the cardiovascular, immune and endocrine systems. For the body, the work of these systems becomes a priority for some time, which affects the function of other organs - for example, digestion or the genital area.

The endocrine system is exhausted. Constantly stimulated by stress, the endocrine function also fails. Hormones are produced with disturbances. As a result, disorders begin in the thyroid gland, ovaries, pancreas, and adrenal glands.

The function of the cardiovascular system is disrupted. Long-term stress on the heart and blood vessels causes heart rhythm disorders, instability of blood pressure and other problems.

The body's defenses are depleted. A prolonged stressful situation leads to paralysis of the immune system, which results in an exacerbation of chronic diseases and the emergence of new infectious and inflammatory processes - this can be candidiasis, dysbacteriosis, erosive lesions (for example, of the cervix), rheumatism, diseases of the joints and muscles, skin pathologies.

The digestive system is disrupted. The most typical development is dysbacteriosis, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome or chronic enterocolitis.

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Symptoms nervous exhaustion

Nervous exhaustion builds up unnoticed and at first looks like ordinary fatigue. However, gradually this condition accumulates and subsequently, unnoticed by the patient, turns into a pathology, which should be treated by a qualified psychotherapist.

A person can notice the first signs of problems with the body by simply listening carefully to himself:

• constant, unrelenting fatigue;
• sleep disorders: the patient cannot fall asleep despite being sleepy during the day;
• the emergence of an inexplicable feeling of anxiety, pessimism;
• the appearance of periodically noticeable heartbeat, imbalance in blood pressure;
• increased sensitivity to external irritants (loud sounds, bright light, strong aromas, etc.);
• frequently recurring headaches;
• pain in the legs, arms, back (of unknown origin);
• causeless increase in temperature;
• discomfort in the stomach or intestines;
• non-seasonal exacerbation of chronic diseases (tonsillitis, gastritis, sinusitis, etc.).

Symptoms also appear that are more often noticed by the patient’s relatives and friends:

• the person becomes irritable, he can be irritated by the surrounding environment or the behavior of loved ones, as well as by himself;
• a person becomes impatient, he begins to get nervous already in the first minutes of forced waiting;
• increased sensitivity to extraneous aromas, sounds, flashes of light appears;
• sleep becomes sensitive and restless, a person often wakes up from nightmares, groans in his sleep, and in the morning does not feel a surge of vivacity and energy;
• even with a small load, headache and weakness are noted;
• a person’s character changes – uncertainty appears, self-esteem falls;
• disturbances in the sexual sphere occur (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, impotence, etc.);
• the patient takes on many things, but cannot complete anything, becomes inattentive, absent-minded, memory and concentration deteriorate;
• weight fluctuations may be observed, appetite may disappear or increase, and a bad mood may be present all the time.

The clinical picture can be conditionally divided into three stages:

• Hypersthenic stage: the patient experiences irritability and fussiness. He himself understands that something is happening to him, but he cannot cope with it on his own. Often he does not control his actions and emotions, provokes quarrels and conflicts. Headache and muscle pain, lack of sleep, insomnia, lethargy and decreased work capacity appear.
• Stage of irritating weakness: the patient becomes hot-tempered, but quickly recovers. His thoughts are pessimistic, anxious. Headaches are accompanied by heart pain, digestive disorders, allergic reactions, shortness of breath, dizziness.
• Hyposthenic stage: the patient enters a state of apathy, he is not interested in anything, his mood is indifferent and depressed, close to depression.

Forms

• F48 - other disorders of a neurotic nature.
• F48.0 – neurasthenic disorder.
• F48.9 – neurotic disorder, unspecified.

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Complications and consequences

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

Social problems often arise, because a person's character and emotional response to what is happening around him changes. Sometimes irritability and dissatisfaction remain. The patient may withdraw into himself and become secretive.

The attitude towards the surrounding world and oneself also becomes irreversible, which can later cause other mental health problems. For example, depression and neurasthenia are two conditions that go hand in hand with each other. Often, such a combination is caused by the illiterate prescription of medications that do not calm, but rather stimulate nervous activity, which only aggravates irritability, increases headaches and contributes to further exhaustion of the nervous system. Such a development of symptoms may be associated with attempts at self-medication.

Simultaneous nervous and physical exhaustion most often accompanies workaholics - people for whom work comes first. 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 a hypertensive crisis), chronic migraines, insomnia, a significant decrease in immunity. A person constantly finds himself in a situation on the verge of a complete breakdown of the body, which can have a truly unpredictable outcome.

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

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Diagnostics nervous exhaustion

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

Laboratory tests are mandatory:

• general blood test;
• biochemical blood test;
• assessment of hormonal levels;
• microelement composition of blood;
• analysis of the use of various medications and narcotics;
• serological and immunological analysis of the blood picture;
• detailed urine analysis.

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

Consultations with other medical specialists may be required:

• neurologist;
• manual therapist and reflexologist;
• endocrinologist;
• cardiologist;
• therapist;
• neurophysiologist;
• psychologist.

General research may include the following methods:

• blood and urine tests;
• pulse assessment, exclusion of hypoxia;
• assessment of blood pressure indicators;
• 24-channel ECG;
• hardware method of examining brain functions;
• EEG (using evoked potentials and mapping);
• normal EEG.

Correct and sufficient diagnostics play a very important role in determining the patient's treatment plan.

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Treatment nervous exhaustion

A comprehensive approach must be taken to treat the disease. To begin with, it is important to put the following rules into practice:

• find and neutralize the cause of exhaustion – eliminate family conflicts, avoid stress and psychological trauma, change jobs or positions, take a vacation, change the environment, etc.;
• if it is not possible to change jobs, it is necessary to properly reorganize the work and rest schedule, in which there should be space for relaxation and active pastime;
• take steps to stabilize your night's rest - get up and go to bed at the same time, avoid caffeine and alcohol, as well as overeating (especially at night);
• try to walk more in the fresh air, relax actively (swimming, playing active games, etc.);
• establish regular and nutritious nutrition;
• establish a regular sex life;
• learn how 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 the patient's complete recovery.

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

• Drugs that promote vasodilation (Mexidol, Tanakan) are used to relieve spasms during 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 accelerating metabolic processes in the brain are herbal remedies based on natural ingredients that help restore neurons.
• Nootropic drugs (nootropil, piracetam, ceraxon, etc.) are prescribed only by a doctor and are taken under his strict supervision, as they can stimulate the psyche and aggravate some symptoms.
• Vitamin complexes (of course, necessary drugs, we will talk about them separately).
• Sedatives (valerian, motherwort, novo-passit, phytosed, etc.) help relieve nervous tension, improve sleep, and calm the nervous system.
• Antidepressants are prescribed by a doctor if symptoms of depression and low mood are present.

Benzodiazepines are prescribed quite often – psychoactive drugs that inhibit the central nervous system. Such medications have hypnotic, sedative, muscle relaxant and anticonvulsant properties, and also reduce anxiety and fear. Among benzodiazepines, the most well-known drugs are Valium, Diazepam, Nozepam, Lorazepam, Chlozepid, Ativan, etc. The dosage and duration of taking such medications is determined by a specialist, since treatment with them can lead to the development of drug addiction.

In addition to traditional treatment, homeopathy has been used frequently in recent times. The most common homeopathic remedies include Calcaria Phos, Magnesia Phos, Kali Phos, Natrum Mur, Lycopodium, Anacardium, Baryta Carb, Zincum Met, Sulphur, Nux Vomica, Selenium, Agnus C.

Vitamins for nervous exhaustion

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

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

B vitamins are considered specific vitamins for the nervous system, as their action is aimed at strengthening and restoring it. A person who is subject to daily stress and mental overload needs these vitamins especially. Doctors recommend taking a complex of B vitamins, not each one separately. The most optimal combination is the complex drug Vitrum Superstress - it contains all the necessary elements to maintain and restore the health of the nervous system.

• Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is a natural antidepressant, helps restore mental abilities. To replenish thiamine reserves, it is recommended to eat buckwheat, beans, lentils, rice, oatmeal and dairy products.
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) prevents fatigue, headaches, weakness. Riboflavin is found in sufficient quantities in nuts, dairy products, liver, and also in the vitamin complex preparation Nutrilite, which is often recommended for children.
• Vitamin B3 (niacin) increases cerebral circulation, promotes regression of signs of neurological and mental illnesses. Among food products, niacin is present in mushrooms, legumes, nuts, cereals and chicken meat. This vitamin is included in many tranquilizing drugs intended to eliminate eating disorders and depressive states.
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) reduces general agitation, promotes serotonin production. It is found in nuts, sea buckthorn berries, seafood, and pomegranates. For better absorption of pyridoxine, the presence of ascorbic acid is required. The most well-known complex preparations containing B6 are Magne-B6 and B-complex.
• Vitamin B9 (folic acid) restores the body's energy potential, improves memory, eliminates anxiety and fear. It is found in broccoli, carrots, liver, and in the pharmaceutical preparations Complivit, Supradin, Neuromultivit.
• 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 drug 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 by intramuscular injection, 2 ml (1 ampoule) once a day. The course of treatment is 30 days.

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) improves the immune system, resists stress, improves mood, helps with nervous experiences. Vitamin C is included in most complex preparations: Vitrum, Elevit, Alphabet, Multitabs. There is also a lot of it in foods: greens, citrus fruits, kiwi, berries, rose hips.

A diet for nervous exhaustion should contain all the listed vitamins, so it is necessary to diversify the daily menu, first of all, with plant foods, cereals, seafood. To reduce the load on the nervous system, it is recommended to reduce the overall consumption of simple carbohydrates and fatty foods, as well as salty foods. It is better to replace fresh baked goods with dark breads and biscuits, and sausages and semi-finished products with lean meat. It is advisable to exclude the use of caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, hot spices. Preference should be given to rosehip drinks, fresh juices, compotes. Meals should be prepared from healthy products: vegetables, dairy products, cereals, legumes, with the addition of vegetable oil.

Folk treatment of nervous exhaustion

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

• Infusion of astragalus herb tones and calms the nervous system. To prepare the infusion, take 1.5 tablespoons of dry raw material and leave for an hour and a half in 250 ml of boiling water. Take up to 4 times a day, 2 tablespoons before meals.
• An infusion of black betony leaves and rhizomes will help with headaches caused by stress. For 500 ml of boiling water, take 1 tbsp. of raw material, leave for an hour and a half. Drink 100 ml up to 4 times a day before meals.
• It is useful to add borage to salads and prepared dishes - it is an excellent sedative that relieves nervous overexcitement.
• Infusion of valerian rhizome is a proven remedy for maintaining nervous balance. Infuse 2 teaspoons of rhizome in a thermos with 250 ml of boiling water overnight. Drink 1 tablespoon up to 4 times a day before meals, with honey if desired.
• Knotweed infusion is recommended to strengthen the nervous system, especially for the elderly. Infuse 1 tbsp of raw material in 500 ml of boiling water for an hour and a half, drink 100-150 ml up to 4 times a day before meals.
• Infusion of angelica roots is an effective tonic and sedative that helps with insomnia. For 1 tbsp. of rhizome take 500 ml of boiling water and leave for up to 2 hours, drink 100 ml warm 3 times a day before meals.

Treatment with folk remedies must be combined with a diet. It is also very important to eliminate the main cause of nervous exhaustion: avoid stress, do not overwork, establish a sleep and rest routine.

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Prevention

• Don't overwork yourself, think about your health, which is not infinite. After work (for example, in the car or at home), try to turn on calm music: sounds of nature, relaxation, lounge collections.
• Listen to yourself, do some self-analysis. Find time to go out into nature every week, meet with friends and not think about work. Remember: all the problems in our lives are imaginary, we create them ourselves in order to spend time and health on solving them later. But if the problems have really accumulated, write them down on paper and solve them sequentially, according to their importance.
• Don't forget to eat well and get enough rest. Instead of "work first," think "health first," and you'll feel much better.
• Try to improve your sleep without using sleeping pills: take a walk at night, avoid coffee and strong tea in the afternoon, do not watch extreme news and programs before bed, do not play computer games.
• Spend time on physical exercise, walks, and find yourself a hobby.
• Take a contrast shower in the morning and a warm bath with soothing herbs in the evening.

If you follow all the above advice, then problems with nerves will most likely pass you by. Once the diagnosis of nervous system exhaustion has already been made, then you are recommended to strictly follow all the advice and instructions of the doctor in order to fully recover.

If nervous exhaustion is not treated, the disease itself will not go away: the condition will worsen in the future, depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders may occur.

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