Getting a diagnosis of ME/CFS, then treating and managing the condition can be a challenging and frustrating experience. The following resources may be of help.
The Canadian ME/CFS Clinical Case Definition and Guidelines for Medical Practitioners (Overview) provides a comprehensive break down of the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of ME/CFS. While aimed at medical practitioners, many people with ME/CFS gain a greater understanding of their own condition by reading this document. A full version of the document is also available.
ME/CFS Australia (Victoria) holds a directory of health practitioners in Victoria and Queensland with experience in the diagnosis, treatment or management of ME/CFS as recommended by our members. Contact details for GPs, specialists and other health practitioners can be provided over the phone on (03) 9791 3100.
Bruce Campbell's CFIDS Self Help website and textbook provide practical strategies for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life of those ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia. Copies of the textbook are available from ME/CFS Australia (Victoria) for $31 including postage.
ME/CFS Australia (Victoria) run regular self-management courses for people with ME/CFS based on 'The Patient's Guide to CFS and Fibromyalgia' by Bruce Campbell. If you are interested in being involved in a course, please contact the office on (03) 9791 3100.
Dr Sarah Myhill's book 'Diagnosing and Treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome' provides a practical guide for the treatment and management of ME/CFS. Copies of the book are available free online in PDF format at Dr Myhill's website. Hard copies can be borrowed from ME/CFS Australia (Victoria)'s library. For information on Dr. Myhill's diagnostic test for ME/CFS, click here.
Dr Byron Hyde has been instrumental in understanding the distinct difference between ME and CFS. Dr Byron Hyde has been consulting with Canadian patients with ME/CFS for over 25 years. He co-authored the first text book in 1992 called 'The Clinical and Scientific Basis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome', Nightingale Research Foundation, Ottowa. The textbook is available from ME/CFS Australia (Victoria)'s library.
For information on magnesium and ME/CFS, please click here.
For further understanding on the diagnostic differences between ME and CFS, see Chapter 3, entitled 'Complexities of Diagnosis' by Byron Hyde in The Handbook of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (2003) J, Leonard; P, Fennell; R Taylor, published by John Wiley and Sons Inc. You may wish to download a copy here to use as a basis for discussion with your doctor.
