How to Manage Chronic Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) affects approximately 180,000 people in the UK and one million people in the USA, though millions more suffer fatiguing illnesses which don’t meet the strict diagnostic criteria for CFS. Chronic fatigue is characterised by persistent and unusual tiredness that has lasted for more than six months, is not cured by rest, and is made worse by any physical and/or mental activity. Other symptoms include muscle pain, headaches, sleep disturbance, loss of concentration and memory, sore throats, and swollen glands. Although recognised by the World Health Organisation as a neurological condition, it is still misunderstood, and specialist healthcare is scarce. This book looks at how to use your own resources to fight chronic fatigue. Topics include: advice on pacing yourself; grading activity and exercise routine; rest, relaxation and sleep; the right diet; how to handle stress; thoughts, feelings, memory and concentration; dealing with other people’s reactions; relapses and setbacks; advice for carers.