Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/ CFS)
Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also called Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a long-term illness with a wide range of symptoms. The most common symptom is extreme tiredness. The condition can affect anyone, including children. It's more common in women. It tends to develop between your mid-20s and mid-40s.
Symptoms of ME/ CFS
There's some debate over the correct term to use for the condition.
The information on this page will refer to the condition as ME/ CFS.
The main symptom of ME/ CFS is feeling extremely tired and generally unwell.
This usually occurs after physical activity.
The symptoms may be delayed for a day or more and may take several days to end.
People with ME/ CFS may also have other symptoms, including:
- sleep problems
- muscle or joint pain
- headaches
- a sore throat or sore glands that aren't swollen
- problems thinking, remembering or concentrating
- flu-like symptoms
- feeling dizzy or sick
- fast or irregular heartbeats (heart palpitations)
Over exercising may make your symptoms worse.
The severity of symptoms can vary from day to day, or even within a day.
The symptoms of ME/ CFS are similar to the symptoms of some other illnesses.
It's important to see your GP to get a correct diagnosis.
Diagnosing ME/ CFS
There isn't a specific test for ME/ CFS. It's diagnosed based on your symptoms and by ruling out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.
Your GP will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You may also have blood and urine tests.
The symptoms of ME/ CFS are similar to those of many common illnesses that usually get better on their own.
A diagnosis of ME/ CFS may be considered if you don't get better as quickly as expected.
Treating ME/ CFS
Treatment for ME/ CFS aims to relieve the symptoms.
Your treatment will depend on how ME/ CFS is affecting you.
Treatments include:
- cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- medication to control symptoms (not cure)
People with ME/ CFS should seek the advice and supervision of an ME/ CFS specialist team, before undertaking exercise as part of a panned programme.
While exercise can be helpful for some, it may worsen the symptoms of others.
Most people with ME/ CFS improve over time, although many people with ME/ CFS don't make a full recovery.
It's also likely there will be periods when your symptoms get better or worse.
Children and young people with ME/ CFS are more likely to recover fully.
Causes of ME/ CFS
It's not known what causes ME/ CFS.
There are a number of theories, for example, it may be triggered by an infection, or certain factors could make you more likely to develop the illness.
Suggested causes or triggers for ME/ CFS include:
- viral infections, such as glandular fever
- bacterial infections, such as pneumonia
- problems with the immune system
- a hormone imbalance
- mental health problems, such as stress, depression and emotional trauma
- your genes – ME/ CFS seems to be more common in some families
Living with ME/ CFS
Living with ME/ CFS can be difficult.
Extreme tiredness and other physical symptoms can make it hard to carry out everyday activities.
You may have to make some major lifestyle changes.
ME/ CFS can also affect your mental and emotional health, and have a negative effect on your self-esteem.
As well as asking your family and friends for support, you may find it useful to talk to other people with ME/ CFS.
More useful links
- Myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/ CFS)
- How to use your health services
- ME Association
- Hope for ME and Fibromyalgia Northern Ireland
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
The information on this page has been adapted from original content from the NHS website.
For further information see terms and conditions.