M.E. - Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
M.E. or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is a disease characterised by symptoms such as chronic exhaustion, body pain and muscle exhaustion. It affects more than 15,000 sufferers in the UK. Originally nicknamed "Yuppie Flu", it is increasingly accepted as a disabling disease and is listed by the World Health Organisation as an organic disorder of the brain.
What causes M.E.?
M.E. is not yet properly understood and more research will need to be undertaken before it is. There are currently two schools of thought on the causes of M.E; one is that it is caused by an immune system dysfunction and the other that it is due to a persistent viral infection.
What are the symptoms?
- Muscle fatigue and exhaustion.
- Cerebral difficulties, such as lack of concentration and memory and speech problems.
- Pain throughout the body and particularly in the muscles.
- Nausea, shivering, fever.
- Digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhoea, gas or bloating.
What treatment is available?
There are no conclusive tests for M.E. so diagnosis is made by clinical observation. While the virus that triggers the illness may be infectious, M.E. itself is not. Treatment is fairly limited and self-help plays a large role. Two scientifically proven treatments are evening primrose and marine oils and magnesium injections. Rest and relaxation can be found to give relief, in therapies such as detoxification, stress management and vitamin and mineral therapy.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Action for M.E, P O Box 1302, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2WE, Tel: 01749 670 799
This organisation provides up-to-the-minute information on research and therapies for sufferers.
AWARE, 1 East Level 3, Tel: 01225 (38) 6906
Medical Centre Tel: (38) 6655