ME is a neurological illness characterized by relapsing-remitting episodes of illness. Its hallmark symptom is post-exertional malaise, a general state of low energy that decreases the capacity to carry out daily activities. ME patients may be bedbound and not able to move, resulting in significant loss of physical and mental functioning. Patients with ME often report a heightened sense of fatigue, weakness, and body aches that make it difficult to carry out daily tasks.
Although there is no cure for ME, doctors have identified biological abnormalities that are common in people with the disease. They use several diagnostic criteria to confirm a diagnosis of ME, and patients are usually treated to relieve symptoms and improve their functioning. Because ME patients’ symptoms vary from person to person, treatments for ME can be complex and vary in quality of life. However, there is little doubt that people with ME require highly individualized treatment and care. There are many comorbid diseases that can occur in people with ME, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, gastroparesis, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Although there is no single cure for M.E., some researchers suggest that inflammation of the brain could be a cause of the disorder. Although these theories are not yet proven, the recent discoveries indicate that inflammation may play a role in the disease. The cause of ME is unknown, but researchers are still working to find a treatment for patients with this disorder. The National Institutes of Health recently awarded three collaborative research centers to accelerate research in this area. Two of the centers are in New York State, at Cornell University and Columbia University. Listed below are organizations that can help people with ME. These organizations can refer patients to medical providers that specialize in the treatment of ME. Additionally, the organizations listed below can help patients find support and medical professionals that specialize in the disease.
According to the National Institute of Health, ME and CFS should be renamed. The disease should also be described with a clinical definition. The Department of Health recognizes ME/CFS as a neurological condition of unknown origin, and a report to the Chief Medical Officer in 2002 reinforced the seriousness of ME/CFS. Another recent academic study estimated that the condition costs the nation about $15 billion per year. The researchers also concluded that the symptoms of ME/CFS vary in severity and intensity.
A brochure that details the disease and its treatment is available for healthcare professionals in the UK. The World Health Organisation classifies ME and CFS as neurological diseases. However, the World Health Organisation does not consider ME a separate clinical entity. In the UK, the disease is often diagnosed under the name ME/CFS. For this reason, it is essential that a person with ME or CFS be diagnosed with an accurate diagnosis. However, if the diagnosis is correct, there is hope.
A common problem with ME/CFS is that the symptoms resemble those of other diseases. Often, the symptoms occur more intensely after mental or physical strain. This is because of a condition called orthostatic intolerance. Orthostatic intolerance can lead to dizziness, weakness, or even fainting. Many people with this disorder do not recover their health prior to getting diagnosed. The lack of a reliable diagnostic test has made the condition more difficult to diagnose and treat.