Symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) vary from person to person. This chronic illness can affect children, teenagers and adults. The disease affects the central nervous system, immune system and musculoskeletal system. A person with ME will usually experience flu-like symptoms, muscle pain and fatigue. The symptoms are typically a result of inflammation of the brain, spinal cord, immune system, and musculoskeletal system. These symptoms can vary from person to person and can affect a person’s mood and emotional health. There are a variety of ways to help ME patients manage their illness, including medication, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. Depending on the severity of the illness, people with ME may be bedbound or have to use a wheelchair to get around. There are also accommodations available for people with ME, including help applying for disability and receiving assistive devices.
The fatigue associated with ME can make activities such as working, studying and preparing food difficult. People with ME have to find a balance between rest and activity to remain active. They also have to take into account their own personal limits, including how much rest they can tolerate. They may have difficulty concentrating, have trouble controlling their temperature, and have dizziness.
Extreme fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of ME. This fatigue can be physical or mental, and is caused by physical or mental overexertion. It causes people with ME to experience a significant loss of cognitive function, and can be so severe that they are bedbound or unable to carry out daily tasks. Some of the other symptoms associated with ME include problems with memory, short-term memory, and concentration. It can also cause problems with sleep. Often, people with ME have trouble falling asleep, and they may wake up with difficulty. It is also important to note that people with ME may experience a wide variety of other symptoms, such as pain, dizziness, headaches, and nausea.
People with ME may also have a variety of other symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, gastroparesis, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Medications, such as antidepressants and amitriptyline, can help relieve pain and muscle pain. Physiotherapy is also helpful, but can be difficult to manage.
People with ME can live with their illness for years before they get the correct diagnosis. They may be misdiagnosed with another condition, such as cancer or diabetes. In fact, 90 percent of people with ME are misdiagnosed. This makes it difficult for most people with ME to get the help they need. Some people inherit a predisposition to ME from their parents, and other medical conditions can increase the risk of ME.
People with mild to moderate ME can usually manage their illness by undergoing treatment, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). CBT helps patients adjust to their diagnosis, including learning how to use their energy more effectively. CBT involves a combination of talking, behavior change, and exercise. People with mild to moderate ME can usually continue to work, study, and engage in social activities. However, they may need to take a break in the afternoon and evening to rest.