ME/CFS is the abbreviation for myalgic encephalomyelitis / chronic fatigue syndrome.
Translated, these terms mean: “muscle pain-related inflammation of the brain and spinal cord / permanent severe exhaustion and extreme fatigue.”
People with ME/CFS suffer from severe mental and physical exhaustion and a variety of other symptoms. The exhaustion does not improve with rest. In technical terms, such severe exhaustion is also called fatigue.
Fatigue in ME/CFS lasts for at least six months. In addition, there is what is known as post-exertional malaise (PEM). This means that the symptoms worsen with exertion.
Possible symptoms include, for example:
- sleep disorders
- pain
- concentration problems
- circulatory problems
The symptoms of ME/CFS affect several systems in the body, such as the nervous system or the digestive system. Depending on the severity, this can lead to impairments in everyday life, disability, or the need for care.
The causes of ME/CFS are not yet known. However, researchers suspect that the immune system and the nervous system are not working together properly. There may be several reasons why someone develops ME/CFS—for example, genetics or environmental influences.
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and improve health. One helpful approach is known as pacing: those affected take care to carefully plan their activities. This helps them to avoid exceeding their own limits.
Further information on possible causes, diagnosis, treatment, and research into ME/CFS can be found on the Website of the Medical University of Vienna and at www.cfs-hilfe.at.
Source: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | Health Portal