ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy)

Myalgic encephalopathy (ME) is a chronic disease diagnosis that is characterized by prolonged fatigue, low energy and other symptoms that go far beyond the sufferer's everyday function. The diagnosis of the disease is made on the basis of symptoms - but unfortunately it is the case that many go for years before they finally get an answer to what is wrong with them. This is partly due to the fact that the symptoms of ME / chronic fatigue syndrome can vary greatly in relation to strength and frequency. There is no cure for this diagnosis, so it is important to support those affected.

The diagnosis is complex and is characterized by a number of symptoms and clinical signs that can potentially affect several systemic areas in the body. The disease can occur suddenly - often after a viral infection or respiratory disease; but can also occur gradually in rarer cases.

Follow and like us too via social media. We also kindly ask that you - if desired - share the article on social media for increased understanding, focus and more research on ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. We point out that in recent years, ME and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have been linked more and more to each other in relation to naming - so therefore the wording in this article will also bear the mark of it. Many thanks in advance to everyone who shares - it can make a big difference for those affected.

Affected? Join the Facebook group «Rheumatism and Chronic Pain - Norway: Research and news»For the latest updates on research and media writing about this disorder. Here, members can also get help and support - at all times of the day - through the exchange of their own experiences and advice.

In this overview article we address the following categories:

Symptoms of ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy)

- Differential diagnoses that can cause similar symptoms as ME

The reason you get ME

- Why does someone get ME?

- Risk factors

- Is ME / chronic fatigue syndrome contagious?

Diagnosis of ME

Treatment of ME

ME and diet

Self-treatment

Symptoms of ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy)

The symptoms may vary, but the diagnosis is usually made based on the following symptoms:

• Reduced everyday functionality and reduced ability to participate in activities
• Physical or mental stress leads to worsening of the condition - this refers to stress that previously did not make the person ill, but which now does
• Sleep problems and disturbed night's sleep

In addition, at least one of the following symptoms must also be present to be diagnosed with ME:

• Brain fog - difficulty with memory and ability to concentrate
• Aggravation of symptoms in sitting or standing position

Other symptoms may also include:

• Muscle pain, joint pain and headache
• Sore lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
• Sore throat
• IBS - Irritable bowel syndrome
• night Sweating
• Food sensitivity and food intolerance
• Odor Sensitivity
• Sound sensitivity
• Increased pain sensitivity after physical exhaustion - e.g. light touch can cause pain

Differential diagnoses that can cause similar symptoms as ME

When you experience such symptoms as mentioned above, it is advisable to consult with your GP. It is important to rule out that it does not involve kissing disease, Lyme disease, alcoholism, diabetes, metabolic problems, MS (multiple sclerosis), hepatitis or other potentially dangerous diagnoses - as these have a different treatment method than myalgic encephalopathy. Certain medications can also cause symptoms reminiscent of ME - so it is important to review the medication list for such symptoms.

Cause: Why does anyone get ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy)?

So what exactly is the cause of ME? Unfortunately, the very cause of myalgic encephalopathy / chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown. It is believed that genetic, physiological and psychological factors all play a complex role in causing and exacerbating the condition. Recent research has also identified a biological marker in the blood samples of those affected - which may indicate that the disease is biological in nature - for example due to viruses.

Also read: - Recent research believes they can diagnose ME / CFS

Due to the fact that the diagnosis of the disease can often be interpreted as influenza in the initial phase, it has also been suspected that it is viral infections that lead to this disorder - among other things, it is suspected that Lyme disease, kissing disease, chlamydia or HHV-6 may be possible causes.

Risk Factors: Who Is Affected With ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Both men and women can be affected - but it is estimated that between 60-85% of those affected are women. There is thus a significantly higher incidence among women - even if it is suspected that there is an underdiagnosis among men. The age group 40-59 years is among those most frequently affected - and among children, as well as young people, it has the lowest incidence.

Research has also shown tendencies towards genetic factors - noting a higher incidence among family members of those affected by ME. There is no evidence or research to suggest that ME is contagious.

Other risk factors for developing ME are:

• childhood Trauma
• Psychological stress
• Previous psychological illness
• Allergies
• Respiratory diseases
• Virus Infections
• Jobs exposed to solvents and chemicals

Virus and myalgic encephalopathy (ME)

An alternative name for the disorder is post-viral fatigue syndrome, given the versions of the diagnosis that appear to occur after a viral infection. As mentioned earlier, viruses are linked as a significant risk factor for developing ME - with the development of myalgic encephalopathy in up to as many as 9% - 22% of those affected by kissing disease. Other viruses such as

Diagnosis: How is Myalgic Encephalopathy / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Diagnosed?

There are no specific diagnostic tests that can be used to make the diagnosis. Clinical history and review of the symptoms are used to make the diagnosis - where, among other things, emphasis is placed on finding or excluding symptoms that may indicate that it is another disease. In other words, the diagnosis ME is made primarily based on the exclusion of other diseases and conditions.

Differential diagnosis

We have previously considered possible diagnoses that may give a similar symptom picture as myalgic encephalopathy (ME). Here is a list of conditions that can cause similar or overlapping symptoms:

• Low metabolism (hypothyroidism)
• Anemia
• Celiac Disease
• bowel Disease
• Diabetes
• Psychological disorders
• Severe depression
• kissing disease
• Flu
• HIV
• tuberculosis
• Borre
• Addison's disease
• Adrenalin Gland Problems
• Cushing's disease
• Lymphoma
• Fibromyalgia
• Polymyalgia rheumatism
• Sjögren's disease
• Polymyositis
• Dermatomyositis
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Dementia
• anorexia
• sleep apnea
• Parkinson
• Multiple sclerosis
• Allergy
• sinusitis
• Autoimmune disease
• Alcohol abuse
• Drug Abuse
• Medication
• Industrial poisoning
• Other Poisoning

Treatment of ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There is no cure for ME / chronic fatigue syndrome - so treatment and the like are based primarily on symptom relief and functional improvement. Physical treatment and adapted exercise have shown some effect in relieving ME in certain studies. However, due to variable symptoms, it is often difficult for someone with chronic fatigue syndrome to get routine on exercise and eventual treatment.

Also read: - Physiotherapy can alleviate Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Physical therapy and Self-measures

Physical therapy - including massage, physiotherapy and adapted chiropractic joint mobilization - has shown, as mentioned earlier, that they can provide symptom relief for those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Other self-measures for associated pain may include compression garments in the form of specially adapted compression gloves or compression socks. Or other measures such as muscle jelly in the form of Arnica gel or heat conditioner (links open in new window).

Many people with ME also experience an increase in associated muscle pain in, among other things, the neck and shoulders. Then self-measures, of the type mentioned above, can be good to have available.

Cognitive therapy

Talking to a cognitive therapist can help - and can result in improved quality of life for some. The form of treatment has the best effect if it is combined with other treatment modalities, such as adapted training and physical treatment.

Training: Stretching and mobility training

Those with ME can react strongly to heavy training. That is why it is primarily recommended stretching exercises and movement training - as well as training in hot water pools - as the main training for those affected. Other training should have a carefully assessed progression curve that is adapted to the individual - and then preferably put together by a physiotherapist or modern chiropractor.

Here we also recommend gentle exercises - including those adapted to rheumatics, as they often suffer from the same hypersensitivity in muscles and joints.

Also read: - 7 Exercises for Rheumatists

Diet and nutrition

Research studies have shown that those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome can have a positive effect of eating a balanced diet with frequent food intake in small doses. In order to avoid malnutrition, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a clinical nutritionist.

Again, as with other illnesses, a high intake of vegetables, as well as fruits, is also recommended due to their high content of cell protective and immune-boosting antioxidants.

Medications and medicines

Antidepressants are largely ineffective in the treatment of ME. On the other hand, a small effect has been seen with antiviral drugs and immunosuppressive drugs - but this is also limited by their powerful side effects. Recent research has also shown that steroid drugs are not an effective drug treatment for ME.

There is hope in the drug rintatolimod - which in some cases has resulted in improved cognitive function, quality of life and higher tolerance to exercise. But the drug is still in the research phase at the time of writing - feel free to comment at the bottom of the comment field if you have input about different drugs that are used and what effect they have had on you.

Feel free to share the article in social media

Many people with ME / chronic fatigue syndrome experience not being believed by either health professionals or fellow human beings. We have become very tired of this and want ME to be brought to light when it comes to allocating research funding, as well as media focus. For far too long, those affected by this disorder have been shunned and treated as inferior.

We therefore kindly request that you share this article in social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Instagram to help increase understanding and better treatment of those affected. Because it is actually tiring enough to be affected by this diagnosis if one is not to be taken seriously either. Make everyday life easier for those with myalgic encephalopathy and share the link to this article in your Facebook profile or blog. Also, feel free to support our work on chronic illness and disease by liking our facebook page.

In advance thank you.

Next page: - 7 Tips and Measures for Chronic Fatigue

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Frequently asked questions related to this article

Is ME deadly?

Can children be affected by ME?

Why do you get ME?

Is there effective treatment for ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Can alcohol abuse lead to Myalgic Encephalopathy?

Is kissing sick cause ME / CFS?