Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) describes a sense of exhaustion and post-exertion malaise, even when you have gotten enough rest and sleep. The disease is characterized by six months of incapacitating fatigue experienced as profound exhaustion and extremely poor stamina, and problems with concentration and short-term memory. The cause is unknown, but it is a...

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4everyoung1 07/09/2016

Dear friends, I was wondering anyone had information regarding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia affecting us at the same time. I have read alot and am still so confused. I read that CFS and Fibromyalgia could have originated with the Epstein Barr virus. This makes sense to me because I have had symptoms since about 18 or sooner years old and I'm 56 now. It is so frustrating but I'm trying to learn more and talk more with people who understand because otherwise, I get depressed and anxious.Any information or references for good reading material, books, would be helpful. Blessings to all, PJ

triunfadora 07/09/2016

Hi, I understand feeling depressed and anxious. It is a lot to deal with and we often don't get a lot of help from doctors. I got ME/CFS and Fibro after having mono, which is the Epstein-Barr virus. I currently don't have high levels of Epstein-Barr, but I remain quite ill. So, yes, I think that having a severe virus can often trigger the beginning of the disease. I read Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Dr. Sarah Myhill. She claims that the function of the mitochondria in our cells is impaired. I'm so glad you found us here. We have a great group and we all support each other a lot. Many blessings, dear one.

4everyoung1 07/09/2016

Thank you so much Triunfadora, I will look up Dr. Sarah Myhill. Thank you again for your kindness and support. I feel like a freak and someone people just don't understand. Blessings to you as well. xo

FerFer 07/11/2016

Hi there, I totally understand about feeling depressed and anxious too! This disease incredibly difficult to deal with in and of itself but then fibromyalgia is added and other such 'lesser' diseases that piggy-back onto ME/CFS! Anxiety is actually one of them I believe! I have been sick with CFS/FM for 25 year and have been told from all of my doctors throughout the years that CFS and FM usually do come together and one is usually worse! I know many people with CFS and FM at the same time! It's no fun, but it's somewhat of an answer! I'm sorry that I don't have anything to look up and study, I just wanted to let you know what I've been told by some very reputable doctors and to support you by saying that 'yes this is very depressing and anxiety causing'....so hang in there and I hope you can find your answers!! Hugssssssss

ladybugdreams 07/12/2016

Hi 4everyoung1, it is nice to meet you & welcome to the forum. I never had Epstein-Barr Virus but ended up with both Fibro & CFS/ME. I am more debilitated by the CFS than the Fibro but they are each distinct in their symptoms, it just takes time to sort them out. Some symptoms overlap & you will get used to that as well. At first, it is overwhelming to have to deal with even one illness & two is even more confusing. We have to learn so much at first & grieve so much that we have had to give up. Just take it one step at a time & be assured that it will all come together for you eventually. I deal with depression due to a lack of serotonin in my brain & believe me I was depressed at first too, it is normal & anxiety is caused by our feelings of a lack of control, everything in our lives has changed. Change is hard but don't be too hard on yourself, what you are going through is normal, relax & learn. You have found the best place to be to find knowledge & strength. Gentle hugs, Denise

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