“Myalgic Encephalomyelitis” also known as “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome” Is classified as a neurological disease in the World Health Organization (ICD). This illness is referred to as “ME/CFS”. It is estimated that 340,000 Canadians suffer from ME/CFS. It affects all age groups including children, although it has a higher rate amongst females. ME/CFS can be debilitating.
Fibromyalgia (FM) is classified as non-articular rheumatism in the World Health Organization (ICD). There is consistent documentation that a physical trauma can trigger FM. FM affects approx 3% of the popualtion (approx 900,000). It affects all age groups but is prevalent amongst females.
“In comparison with other chronic illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis, end-stage renal disease and heart disease, patients with ME/CFS show markedly higher levels of disability” – (Quality of Life and Symptom Severity for Individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Findings from a randomized Clinical Trial. RR Taylor, American Journal of Occupational Therapy 2004:58:35-43)
ME/CFS (also referred to as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) is classified as a neurological disease in the World Health Organization.
“There is evidence that the patients with this illness experience a level of disability that is equal to that of patients with late-stage AIDS, patients undergoing chemotherapy (and) patients with Multiple Sclerosis.) Professor Nancy Klimas, University of Miami, speaking at the lunch of the US CDC campaign to raise awareness of ME?CFS, 3 November 2006, National Press Club, Washington DC)”
Symptoms are:
- Fatigue (New or sudden onset) lasting more then 6 months
- Postexertional Malaise (lasts more then 24 hours)
- Sleep dysfunction (ie: unrefreshing sleep)
- Pain (ie; Muscle & Joint, new headaches)
- Neurological & Cognitive Impairment (ie: short term memory impairment & disorientation)
- At least one symptom from two of the categories: Immune (ie: sore throat, lymph nodes), Autonomic(ie; nausea & irritable bowel syndrome), Neuroendecrine(ie: subnormal body temperature, sweating episodes)
FM is classified as a non-articular rheumatism in the World Health Organization. The symptoms are:
- Widespread pain and tenderness lasting for at least 3 months
- Neurological (ie; Muscle cramps and weakness)
- Neurocognitive (ie; Impaired concentration & short term memory impairment)
- Fatigue (ie: Reduced physical & mental stamina)
- Sleep disturbance (ie; non-refreshing sleep, insomnia)
- Hot/Cold Intolerance
- Stiffness most severe upon awakening & lasts for hours
For more information please review the Canadian Concensus Overview Documents:
These are valuable documents to aid in physician and patient awareness.
There are 2 separate overviews: ME/CFS & FM
To view these documents please go to: www.mefmaction.net
& view the Canadian Consensus Documents Overview: Physicians/Articles & Articles & Research
