Myalgic encephalomyelitis

Myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), causes long-term - and in some cases debilitating - tiredness which is not relieved by rest or sleep.

The first symptoms are, in fact, often similar to flu, but they do not go away and, in many cases, may become worse.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms are debilitating fatigue, muscle pain, and mental fogginess.

The cause of ME/CFS cannot be explained by other conditions, such as depression, and it does not improve substantially after periods of rest.

Some patients also have difficulty in concentrating, short-term memory impairment, sore throats, headaches and insomnia.

Some people have such severe symptoms that they are confined to bed while others only suffer fatigue when they come up against stressful situations.

Many people experience fluctuating symptoms, sometimes feeling fine, and at others finding that many daily activities are beyond them.

What causes ME/CFS?

Currently, the cause of CFS/ME remains unknown, although several factors have been suggested, including immunological, genetic, viral, neuroendocrine and psychological.

It may be best regarded as a spectrum of illness that is triggered by a variety of factors in people who have an underlying predisposition.

There is evidence that some people may be genetically susceptible to the condition, as it is more common in some families.

Other causes may include viral infections, such as glandular fever, mental stress, depression or a reaction to a traumatic event, such as bereavement or redundancy.

The condition appears to be exacerbated by infections, not taking enough exercise, over-exercising and social isolation.

Who suffers from ME?

It is estimated that 250,000 people in the UK have the condition.

Anyone can get it, although it is thought to be more common in women, who make up as much as 75% of cases.

The condition usually develops in the early twenties to mid-forties. Children can also be affected, most commonly between the ages of 13-15.

Is there any treatment available?

There is no cure for ME, but a number of treatment approaches do help some people relieve their symptoms. These include:

• Getting regular sleep

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

• A gradual increase in exercise, such as swimming and walking - this needs to be agreed in advance with a GP as trying do to do much too soon could be counter-productive

• Antidepressants can help those who become depressed about their illness

• Over-the-counter painkillers can help to ease muscle and joint pain and headaches

Many people with ME are advised to avoid stressful situations, find time for relaxation, and keep a close check on how their energy levels change.

Some experts also recommend avoiding alcohol, caffeine, sugar and sweeteners, as well as making sure that meals are regular.

How long does it last?

Difficult to pin down. Some people recover fully within two years, while others are blighted by symptoms indefinitely.

However, for most the condition can be successfully managed.

Has the condition been controversial?

It took a long time for the condition to be recognised fully by doctors, and in some circles was dismissed as "yuppie flu".

While some remain unconvinced of its existence, it is now fully established in the mainstream as a bona fide medical condition.