Understanding Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a serious, long-term illness that affects many body systems. ME/CFS can often make you unable to do your usual activities. Sometimes you may not even be able to get out of bed.
The cause of ME/CFS is unknown. There may be more than one thing that causes it. It is possible that two or more triggers might work together to cause the illness.

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Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- ME/CFS
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- ME
- CFS

Signs & symptoms

ME/CFS can cause severe fatigue that does not improve with rest, as well as sleep problems and post-exertional malaise (PEM), where your symptoms get worse after any physical or mental activity. You may also experience difficulty concentrating, chronic pain and dizziness.
ME/CFS can be unpredictable. Your symptoms may come and go. They may change over time - sometimes they might get better, and other times they may get worse.

Diagnosis

ME/CFS can be difficult to diagnose. There is no specific test forME/CFS, and other illnesses can cause similar symptoms. Your health care provider must rule out other diseases before making a diagnosis of ME/CFS. He or she will do a thorough medical exam and question your regarding your symptoms and medical history.

Treatment

There is no cure or approved treatment for ME/CFS. The goal is to relief your symptoms. You, your family, and your health care provider should work together to decide on a plan. You should figure out which symptom causes the most problems and try to treat that first.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

Learn more about our editorial process for content accuracy.

Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital