NeuroTalk Support Groups - What is ME? It is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis

Thanks for bringing this to our attention, Tim - we must as DocJohn to add this term to the forum description. Excellent find.

What is ME?
ME is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). As yet, there's no finite definition of the condition. There's also no specific test to diagnose it; doctors rely on recognising the symptom pattern typical of ME and ruling out other conditions.

ME may also be diagnosed as post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS).

Causes
The exact cause of ME isn't known. The condition affects the function of the immune and nervous systems. Viral infections such as glandular fever and viral meningitis are known to trigger ME. One in ten people with glandular fever develop ME symptoms.

Symptoms
Symptoms include a combination of extreme exhaustion (brought on by small activities), muscular and joint pain, sensitivity to noise, alcohol, light and changes in temperature, headaches, disturbed sleep patterns, concentration problems, nausea and dizziness, and digestive disturbances.

Managing ME
There's no known cure for ME, although symptoms such as pain and sleep disturbance can be treated to improve quality of life. An approach called pacing is helpful for 90 per cent of sufferers. This aims to find a sustainable balance of activity and rest that doesn't exacerbate symptoms. Some sufferers, however, find treatments ineffective.

According to ME organisations, the first step in any treatment programme is coming to terms with the condition and the restrictions it places upon you. Then, following a medical assessment, you can make informed sensible changes to suit your particular needs. Unfortunately, this may involve giving up work or full-time education. But it's important to remember that help is available - whether of the practical or financial kind.

Facts about ME
ME affects around 240,000 people in the UK - that's one in 250 people.
Anyone can get ME - around 25,000 young people have the condition.
Around 25 per cent of people with ME are severely affected - confined to house or bed and unable to look after themselves.