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Physical Health

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis

2 min read

Myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), is a long term condition that affects hundreds of thousands of people across the UK, of all ages and backgrounds. It is far more than feeling tired, and it can have a major impact on a person’s ability to work, study, socialise and carry out everyday tasks.

Because ME/CFS has no single test and its symptoms can vary so much from person to person, it is often misunderstood, and many people wait a long time for a diagnosis. Living with the condition can be isolating and frustrating, and it can also place a heavy responsibility on family members and carers.

In this article, we explain what ME/CFS is, the most common symptoms, how it can affect daily life and when to speak to your GP. You’ll also find trusted organisations offering information and support for adults, young people and parents or caregivers at the end of the page.

On this page

    ME stands for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

    It is a neuro-immune disease and often triggered by an infection or injury. It affects every system in your body – the neurological immune, endocrine and energy metabolism systems. It comes with many symptoms including:

    • Severe fatigue that is not improved by rest
    • Pain
    • digestive issues
    • cognitive dysfunction/brain fog
    • sleep problems
    • tender lymph nodes
    • allergies

    Symptoms can vary from patient to patient and different levels of severity. It can be very debilitating, and some people are housebound or even bedbound and need of care

    NHS England state there are 250,000 people in the UK with ME/CFS, but this figure is an estimate, and it is a very old one. Action for ME believes this figure is significantly below the real figure and new research needs to be done

    Contact your GP if you are struggling with ME/CFS or believe you may have the symptoms

    Resource Links for Adults:

    Resource Links for Young People:

    Resource Links for Parent & Caregivers:

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