CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME/MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS (OR ENCEPHALOPATHY) (CFS/ME)

Relatively common (up to 40 patients/10,000 list). Variable between individuals and over time, but can be as physically disabling as multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Symptoms include fatigue, malaise, headaches, sleep disturbance, difficulties with concentration, muscle pain, and may be present for many years before diagnosis. The causes and disease processes of CFS/ME are not understood. Managing severe CFS/ME is difficult and complex, and specialist advice is needed.