
ME/CFS - What is it?
CFS stands for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis - ME/CFS). It is a complex disorder characterized by persistent, severe fatigue that is not relieved by sleep or rest and that significantly affects daily life.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of ME/CFS include
- Extreme fatigue that is not improved by sleep or rest
- Concentration disorders and memory problems ("brain fog")
- Sleep disorders
- Muscle pain and joint pain
- Headache
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Dizziness or drowsiness
- Worsening of symptoms after physical or mental exertion (post-exertional malaise)
The exact causes and disease mechanisms of ME/CFS are not yet fully understood. Research examines, among other things, immunological, neurological, vascular, and metabolic changes; the disease often begins after an infection. There is currently no curative therapy. Treatment is based on individual symptoms. Adapted energy management (Pacing) is particularly important to avoid overload and a worsening of symptoms due to post-exertional malaise (PEM).
How I am doing
🧓Degree of care
PG 4
Since 05.2021
♿Severely disabled
100 %
Since 06.2021
🛏️Bedriddenness
100%
Complete
🧠 Cognitive functions
🧠 Concentration
09.2026Before: 2/10
Stimulus-response, no focus
Current: 5/10
Simple activities for a short time
💭 Thinking
09.2026Before: 2/10
Reaction without reflection
Current: 7/10
Longer thinking distances possible
📖 Read
09.2026Before: 2/10
Individual words
Current: 5/10
Simple texts section by section
💬 Communication
🗣️ Speak
09.2026Before: 2/10
Single words per hour
Current: 3/10
Very short sentences with difficulty
🎧 Listening
09.2026Before: 2/10
Individual sounds possible
Current: 3/10
A few seconds of listening
⌨️ Writing
09.2026Before: 2/10
Individual characters or words
Current: 5/10
Short messages possible
🏃 Activities
🍽️ Nutrition
09.2026Before: 2/10
Liquid food or small bites
Current: 9/10
Minor restrictions when eating
📺 Television
09.2026Before: 2/10
Seeing by the second possible
Current: 4/10
Very short clips with a pause
