What is chronic fatigue syndrome? What is ME?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a condition where patients most commonly experience extreme fatigue which doesn’t improve with sleep or rest. It is usually accompanied by many other unexplained symptoms and the symptoms are usually exacerbated by activity.

The condition is also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID), commonly abbreviated to ME/CFS.

There are a large number of other symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, but the type of fatigue which worsens with either physical or mental activity is the most common symptom. Due to the sheer number of symptoms it is hard for patients to get a diagnosis.

Doctors typically rule out other pathologies (conditions) with medical tests and examinations before patients are diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome.

What causes chronic fatigue syndrome?

What causes ME?

Whilst the cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is unknown, it is likely caused by a number of mitigating factors which cause the condition to develop.

People with ME/CFS can have a variety of issues such as a weakened immune system and sometimes hormonal imbalances. It is also likely they have suffered different viruses or been under stress (psychological or physical) for a period of time.

This variety of potentially causative factors are thought to create an environment where the condition of ME/CFS develops. Whilst it is also possible some people are genetically predisposed to develop ME/CFS, it can affect anyone - although it is most common in women.

There’s currently no cure, but treatment like The Perrin Technique can relieve symptoms to a level where people can return to active lives.

A physical disorder, not a psychological condition with physical symptoms.

The Perrin Technique is one of the only methods designed specifically diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome or ME, as most other methods are a process of elimination.

The Perrin Technique is an active diagnosis, listening to and considering every symptom a patient is experiencing before physically examining the patient. The physical examination is specifically designed to assess lymphatic build up and physical issues related to chronic fatigue syndrome.

The combination of The Perrin Techniques consultations, the comprehensive case history and physical examination provides a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. This method underwent underwent an NHS clinical trial, which you can read more about here.

Dr Perrin detected definite physical signs related to chronic fatigue syndrome

Every patient is different and undertakes their own health journey. Yet, there are similarities between patients in their health histories and symptoms.

Dr Perrin’s theoretical model is on how chronic fatigue syndrome is caused and provides a clear outline based on years of research. The model is a general guide to explain the causes and how certain triggers can cause chronic fatigue syndrome.