ME (Myalic Encephalomyelitis)
RELATED SYMPTOMS
me myalic encephalomyelitis viral infection postviral syndrome postviral fatigue stress toxins fatigue memory impairment short term memory poor concentration sore throat swollen lymph nodes tender lymph nodes muscle pain joint pain multijoint pain headaches poor sleep postexertional malaise lethargy excess tiredness lacking energy lack of energy
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About ME (Myalic Encephalomyelitis)
ME has also been called post-viral fatigue syndrome, myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue. Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is characterised by prolonged fatigue associated with a wide range of accompanying symptoms. Viral infection, stress and toxins could all be possible triggers. To be diagnosed with ME someone must have severe chronic fatigue for at least six months with no other medical condition identified as the cause. They must also have four or more of the following symptoms: Substantial impairment in short-term memory or concentration, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, muscle pain, multi-joint pain without swelling or redness, Headaches of a new type, pattern or severity, unrefreshing sleep and post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours. Symptoms of ME are not improved by bed rest and can be made worse from physical and mental activity. Other symptoms could occur, including abdominal, chest or jaw pain, irregular heartbeat, night sweats, morning stiffness, bloating, diarrhoea, dizziness, nausea, tingling sensations and weight loss. Psychological problems, such as depression, irritability and panic attacks may also occur.
Western Medicine View
There is no particular treatment for ME, as there is still not much known as to its cause. However, there are medicines that can be prescribed to relieve the symptoms: painkillers for muscle pains and headaches, for example, and antidepressants for depression. Behaviour therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, counselling and graded exercise may help. Reducing stress, eating a healthy diet and support groups also help many people with ME.
Chinese Medicine View
From a Chinese medical perspective, any type of post-viral fatigue, whether ME or not, can be interpreted, diagnosed and treated according to the principles of Chinese medicine. However, it has been found that there is a difference between "true" ME characterized by a persistent viral infection, and post-viral syndrome, characterized by a disharmony of the internal organs following a viral infection. The main way to distinguish these two conditions is in the symptoms of muscle ache and a general flu-like feeling: in "true" ME these are very predominant and persistent. Also, in "true" ME the pulse has a certain full quality, which may be slippery or wiry. The three main conditions with which ME can manifest are: Residual pathogenic factor, Latent Heat and Lesser Yang pattern.
Treatment Options
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs. ME (Myalic Encephalomyelitis) can manifest itself with excess conditions and deficiency conditions both of which can be treated with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Excess Conditions: Damp-Heat in the muscles, Heat lurking in the Interior, Lesser Yang pattern. Deficiency conditions: Qi Deficiency, Yin Deficiency and Yang Deficiency.
Lifestyle Advice
For personalised advice on diet and lifestyle, please ask the doctor during your consultation. Please be reminded that chinalife offers free health advice. [LINK]
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Case History
"I have been receiving treatment for approximately two years for M.E. There was an immediate improvement (slight) in my condition and I found significant improvement after two years. Progress was slow after the initial improvement but alongside Chinese massage I did improve."