7 resources
ME/CFS is a complex clinical picture that can be accompanied by various symptoms. Particularly characteristic is post-exertional malaise (PEM), i.e. delayed exercise intolerance. In addition to PEM, sufferers often experience severe fatigue and other symptoms such as sleep disorders, pain, difficulty concentrating or circulatory problems.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is an often severe illness that, in addition to fatigue, is accompanied by varying degrees of physical and neurocognitive symptoms. ME/CFS can be described as a "neglected disease" because, although ME/CFS is relatively common, it is not diagnosed in many of those affected. According to estimates by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4 million people in the US alone are directly affected by CFS. In Germany, a 1993 study by the Federal Ministry of Health estimates a prevalence of 0.3%. The WHO has classified CFS as a disease of the nervous system, and the ICD also lists CFS as a neurological disease under G93.3.
In addition to significant overlaps in symptoms in adults, such as severe fatigue and concentration problems, there are also characteristic differences. This applies in particular to post-exertional malaise (PEM), i.e. the worsening of all symptoms due to physical, mental or emotional overexertion.
ME/CFS is characterised by dysregulation of the central and autonomic nervous systems, the immune system and metabolism. For those affected, this means severely limited performance and severe fatigue (exhaustion) that does not subside even after rest.
ME/CFS is a neuroimmunological disorder that can occur at any age. Those affected can be impacted by the disorder to varying degrees. In some cases, sufferers are unable to leave their homes or are bedridden.
Educational video on Long COVID and ME/CFS from the German Society for ME/CFS and Long COVID Germany on the topic of Pacing.
Educational video on Long COVID and ME/CFS from the German Society for ME/CFS and Long COVID Germany on the topic of PEM.
