What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?

It is believed to be caused by an abnormal response to a virus or some other "trigger" factor. Sufferers may have contracted a commonly recognised virus or unrecognised agent but did not recover as expected. Thus M.E is a chronic and disabling condition affecting the immune, endocrine and central nervous systems.

What are the symptoms?

Some of the these can include, extreme flu like symptoms, persistent exhaustion, muscle aches, pain and tenderness, also severe pain in the neck, head and shoulders. All can be exacerbated by physical/mental effort. Every system in the body can be affected to some degree which can vary from day to day. Memory loss and ability to concentrate, disturbed balance, hearing and sleep patterns. Including bladder, bowel, also gastrointestinal dysfunction.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

This is the name currently used by the medical profession to cover a constellation of symptoms with severe and debilitating fatigue and cognitive dysfunction including some of the above symptoms.

What is Fibromyalgia?

This is a chronic condition of widespread pain and profound fatigue. The pain can be felt as diffuse aching or burning, often described as "I hurt all over" In some people the pain can be intense enough to interfere with daily tasks. The fatigue ranges from feeling tired to exhaustion of a flu-like illness. Tender points occur in identical positions on each side of the body, tenderness in these areas is characteristic and a distinctive feature of FM. Sufferers can also have some of the above symptoms of M.E.

Diagnosis: is usually made on clinical history and careful elimination of other illnesses with similar symptoms. There are some laboratory tests which will support the diagnosis (with Fibromyalgia tender points), immune system testing, (red blood cell analysis & urine analysis, optional.) the criteria set our by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) USA is often used.

Management: As the cause is not yet fully understood, no one specific treatment has yet been developed. Rest, particularly in the early stages, will be of benefit. It is important for people to listen to what their bodies are telling them and not to overtire or stress themselves beyond their limits. It is essential to accept a different and less stressful lifestyle. Some people have been helped by Evening Primrose Oil, B12 injections, amino acid or other supplements. New treatments which have helped some people are available on request.

Course of Illness: The condition may take one of three courses.