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ME
(Myalgic
Encephalomyelitis)
Known
Causes
Conventional
treatments
Who gets ME?
Is
there a diagnostic test of ME?
What
are the chances of recovering?
What is ME?
ME is a potentially severe and disabling illness which is classified by
the World Health Organisation as a neurological disorder. It is also known
as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or post viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS).
Symptoms are a disabling exercise-induced
muscle fatigue, an ongoing ‘flu-like’ malaise and various neurological
symptoms such as clumsiness, problems with concentration, memory and
balance. Other symptoms include muscle pain, sore throats and enlarged
glands, joint pains and alcohol intolerance. Some people with ME/CFS have
irritable bowel symptoms and become more prone to allergic illnesses.
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Known Causes
Some form of infection is the most frequent trigger. A small number of
cases are linked to vaccinations and exposure to pesticides, including
organophosphates.
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Conventional
teatments
There is no cure and drugs aimed at relieving various symptoms may help
some patients, but not others. These include low doses of antidepressants,
evening primrose oil and immunological treatments. Early diagnosis and
correct management appear to bring the most significant degree of
recovery.
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Who gets ME?
It is estimated that at least
150,000 people in the UK have ME/CFS.
All age groups can be affected although the onset is rare below the age of
7 and over the age of 60. The commonest
age of onset is between mid teens and mid forties. Women are slightly more
at risk than men. MC/CFS affects all
social classes.
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Is
there a diagnostic test of ME?
No. The diagnosis has to be made on the
typical pattern of symptoms along with the exclusion of numerous other
causes of chronic fatigue. Anyone who is suspected of having ME/CFS should
have a number of routine blood tests checked by their GP as well as more
specialised investigations if the diagnosis remains in doubt.
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What
are the chances of recovering?
Most people fall into one of four
groups:
- Those who manage to return to completely
normal health, but this may take a considerable amount of time.
- The majority, who tend to follow a
fluctuating pattern with both good and bad periods of health. Relapses
or exacerbations are often precipitated by infections, operations,
temperature extremes or stressful events.
- A small but significant minority remain
severely affected and may require a great deal of practical and social
support.
- Continued deterioration is unusual. When
it occurs a detailed medical assessment is advisable in order to
exclude other medical problems.
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