Theme: The disease where pushing harder can make you sick.

Every year on May 12th, International ME/CFS Awareness Day spreads awareness for a condition called myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. It’s also a day to draw attention to other chronic immunological and neurological diseases (CIND).

Chronic pain and exhaustion are not a joke, which is why we observe M.E/CFS Awareness. Considering that this is such a unique and commonly misunderstood disease, it is vital to educate people on the symptoms, treatment, and compassion they need for individuals suffering from this disease.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating and complex disease. Overwhelming fatigue is one of the primary symptoms of ME/CFS. This fatigue can prevent those with the disease from doing their normal everyday activities. It can also prevent people from doing simple tasks, such as taking a shower. Severe cases cause people to be bedridden for long periods of time. Those with ME/CFS cannot just rest to feel better. The fatigue is usually worse after any kind of physical or mental activity. For some people, ME/CFS affects every area of life, which includes school and work. Their social life is affected as well.

SYMPTOMS OF ME/CFS

• Muscle or joint pain
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Brain fog
• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeats
• Flu-like symptoms
• Trouble sleeping
• Joint pain, muscles, or belly area.

HOW TO OBSERVED INTERNATIONAL ME/CFS AWARENESS DAY

• Research can be funded through awareness. As awareness is created, more people will be willing to support the cause.
• Charity and fundraising drives will help medical professionals get to the bottom of this disease.
• Take the time to listen and speak up for those who have this complex illness.
• Healthcare providers are encouraged to learn more about ME/CFS. Those who know someone with ME/CFS can also learn more about the disease.
• Wear blue to show your support of those with ME/CFS.
• Read about famous people who have had this disease, like Cher, Stevie Nicks, Morgan Fairchild, Marie Curie, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
• Watch the documentary called, Unrest.
• Most hospitals and medical treatment institutions should have a special department to treat people with myalgic encephalomyelitis. Go volunteer and see how you can help alleviate someone’s pain in the best way possible.
• This disease is still misunderstood. There are many different views and opinions, especially the uneducated public who view people suffering from it as being weak. Read up to avoid this ignorance.
• Go for a check-up.
• If you feel tired or weak or not well-rested, it’s a great idea to go and see your doctor. This disease can creep up on you, and the best way to prepare is to know what it is and ensure that you do not have it.

FACTS ABOUT MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

• The causes vary. Researchers don’t exactly know what causes ME/CFS.
• A high percentage of those who have it do not have a proper diagnosis. Many people go undiagnosed due to the complex nature of the illness.
• An estimated 17 million people around the world suffer from ME/CFS.
• It is most common in children and teens, plus women in their late 40s and early 50s.
• ME/CFS affects more women than men.
• Most people with ME/CFS will improve over time.
• You can get ill from an infection caused by a virus or from substances you’ve been exposed to.
• Treatment is very effective. This will include a graded exercise program that gradually incorporates walking, swimming, or cycling daily.
• It is not considered contagious. Most people who have had close contact with M.E. patients have not developed the illness.
• Anyone can get it.

WHY M.E. AWARENESS WEEK IS IMPORTANT

• Awareness brings attention and understanding.
• People need to be educated on what exactly this disease is and how it impacts people.
• The spotlight is put on those suffering.

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