ME/CFS &
FMS
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Main symptoms:
Persistent or recurring, unexplained mental and physical fatigue that substantially reduces normal activity levels.
Post-exertional malaise. Following physical and mental exertion there is a worsening of symptoms that may be delayed 24 hours or more and recovery after activity is slow.
Dysfunctional sleep. Unrefreshing sleep, inability to fall asleep, excessive sleep, frequent awakenings, restless legs, abnormal sleep rhythms.
Pain. Burning, aching and shooting pain in muscles and/or joints, headaches of a new type and severity, widespread tenderness.
Cognitive problems, e.g. brain ‘fog’; problems with processing and recalling information; difficulty with finding the right word, reading, writing, mathematics and short-term memory; losing track of things; forgetting names; disorientation; inability to concentrate on more than one thing; trouble with decision-making.
More:
Information from ME/CFS Australia (you can also see their brochure)
For the latest research regarding diagnosis and treatment please see 2005/2006 - Overview of the Canadian Consensus clinical guidelines for ME/CFS Courtesy of the Canadian ME/FM Action Network.
ME/CFS Research Review
A review of the existing biomedical clinical and research literature clearly reveals the extensive physical abnormalities and dysfunction found in the immune, endocrine, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal and central nervous systems of those affected.
You can read a brief (single page) summary of this literature (1955 - 2006) by clicking here.
Fibromyalgia Syndrome
The Fibromyalgia Syndrome is a common and perplexing clinical condition characterised by constant presence of widespread pain, so severe that it is often incapacitating, plus the presence of symetrically displayed "tender" points in muscles, tendons or bony prominences that are painful to palpation. The syndrome may also include non-restorative sleep, muscle stiffness and fatigue.
For more information please see 2005/2006 - Overview of the Canadian Consensus clinical guidelines for FMS Courtesy of the Canadian ME/FM Action Network.
Newly diagnosed with a condition?
The Society strongly recommends you read:
Advice to a New Patient
By Bruce Campbell
CFIDS and Fibromyalgia expert Bruce Campbell talks about the most important things to remember in coping with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or fibromyalgia.
Family and Friends
Coping Information for family and friends by Bruce Campbell
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