Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is a chronic multi-systemic neurological disorder. It causes unrelenting and persistent fatigue that occurs with other distinguishing symptoms, not related to continuous activity or another medical condition, and is not improved by rest.


This inflammatory disorder causes a constellation of symptoms and is known by various names in different countries. ME is also referred to as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS) and chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS). ME affects the central nervous system (CNS), musculoskeletal system, endocrine system and the cardiovascular system.


Patients with ME are unable to perform formerly routine physical activities and often experience debilitating physical and mental decline with continued efforts. Most ME cases begin abruptly and in combination with flu-like symptoms. Others occur within months of extreme stress. 


Theories suggest that ME is caused by a viral infection, an autoimmune attack on the CNS and musculoskeletal system, or a combination of the two. ME is often confused with Lyme disease, the Epstein-Barr virus, and psychological conditions such as, depression and hypochondria. 


There are more than sixty well-documented and widespread outbreaks of ME over the past sixty years. Initial descriptions of ME began in the 1930s after an outbreak in Los Angeles caused a chronic illness distinguished by neurological complications, mood swings, muscle weakness and sensitivity. One outbreak afflicted 150 staff members at a hospital in London. Reports in the literature used the term epidemic neuromyasthenia for myalgic encephalomyelitis 


There are no imaging studies or laboratory tests help diagnose ME. Physicians use testing to eliminate other possible causes for the patient’s medical condition. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) established diagnostic criteria for clinical and research purposes. The CDC requires that patients meet both of the following criteria to receive a diagnosis:


1. An inexplicable new onset of unrelenting fatigue, and other symptoms, that are not caused by another medical condition or strenuous activity not alleviated by rest. 

2. Four or more of these symptoms must persist for six months or longer:

• Poor memory or focus
• Malaise, exhaustion and illness after mental and physical discomfort
• Non-rejuvenating sleep
• Muscle pain
• Multiple joint pain
• Headache that is different or more severe
• Sore throat that is continuous or recurrent
• Sensitive lymph nodes

Other common ME symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain, IBS, bloating, nausea and diarrhea
• Chills and excessive sweating during sleep 
• Confusion, periods of absentmindedness and poor focus
• Persistent cough
• Visual issues such as, blurred vision, hypersensitivity to light, dry eyes or eye pain
• Allergies or intolerance to foods, liquor, odors, chemicals, drugs or sounds
• Inability to hold an upright posture due to an abnormal heartbeat, problems with balance or coordination
• Psychological issues such as, severe depression, irritability, mood swings, anxiousness and panic disorders 


Currently there is no cure for ME. Various targeted therapies have helped improve the quality of life for ME patients. Most treatment plans focus on restoring sleep, preventing disability, reducing discomfort, disability and relapses.