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- What is M.E.?
M.E. is a neurological disease affecting the brain & nervous
system which controls all the body systems.
Symptoms may include:
Profound fatigue (worsened by physical and mental exertion)
Muscle aching and weakness (sometimes called fibrositis or
fibromyalgia)
Sleep disturbance
Memory and concentration difficulties
Recurring flu-like symptoms
Pressure-like headaches
Depression and pain
Worsening of allergies and sensitivities
In some cases the symptoms are so severe that the person becomes
disabled and unable to work or attend school for a prolonged,
indefinite time.
Who Gets M.E.?
People of all ages (including children) are ill with M.E. A
higher incidence is noted among those in high public contact e.g.
teachers, health care workers
What Causes M.E.?
Research is ongoing around the world to determine the cause.
Many people report they become ill after a viral infection.
Others became ill after surgery, an accident, exposure to chemicals,
childbirth, severe stress, etc.
Research is investigating the role of viruses and other predisposing
factors such as genetics, toxins, and other immune stressors.
How is M.E. Diagnosed?
There is not diagnostic test.
M.E. may be diagnosed if a person's normal activity has been
substantially effected, they exhibit the symptoms, and other causes
of the symptoms have been investigated.
The U.S. Centres for Disease Control (CDC) has published guidelines
for research in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
How long does M.E. Last?
To date there is no cure
What
is the treatment?
There is no specific treatment, however, there are ways to alleviate
some of the symptoms.
Identify your limit and learn to live within it. Rest,
combined with activity, only as tolerated, is important.
Medication may be ordered by your physician to help regulate your
sleep cycle or treat other symptoms. Remember unusually
low doses may be needed.
- Practical
suggestions
Educate yourself, your family, friends and doctor about M.E. (
The M.E. Association can help!)
Pace yourself and "listen to your body"
Use caution when taking medication. You may only tolerate unusually
low doses.
Learn how to relax and deal with stress more effectively
Learn what causes your symptoms to flare up and eliminate this
as much as possible. Keeping a diary may help.
Remember, depression can be a normal reaction to any chronic
illness. Don't hesitate to get help.
Avoid alcohol and stop smoking.
Attend support group meetings where others understand how you
are feeling and can share ideas for coping.
- [Consult your
physician for an opinion as to what was discussed herein.]
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