ME/CFS (Myalgia Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) is a chronic debilitating illness characterised by fatigue that does not go away with rest. The newest name for the illness is SEID (Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease).
There are many symptoms including:
- Fatigue not eased on resting
- Flu-like symptoms
- Brain fog
- Poor concentration
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- Palpitations
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Headaches
- Fatigue on exertion
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle spasms and twitches
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Food intolerances
- Insomnia
- Adrenal fatigue
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
With Fibromyalgia there are additional symptoms of:
- Systemic pain
CFS is diagnosed by elimination after various NHS tests such as blood tests, endoscopy, ECG, postural tests, MRI scan etc. If all their test results come back negative then they may diagnose you with CFS.
Often people with ME/CFS are housebound or even bedbound. The illness can last for a few months to several years. I had CFS for 3 years and after making diet and lifestyle changes was able to function in society again.
I hope this information has helped you to better understand ME/CFS/SEID.
SEID? That ‘is’ new 🙂 Let’s hope that with the new name comes new respect and quicker diagnoses! Great post by the way! 🙂
Thanks! 🙂 Not sure I like the new name ‘exertion intolerance’ as it makes it sound like we are just lazy. Yes lets hope so! 🙂