The NAME GAME

Wed, 25/10/2006 - 1:30pm — Abbey

OK you guys, lets get into it.

Do you want a new name for ME/CFS?

What are the pros and cons associated with such a change, and when do you think the change should take place?

ME/CFS and FM Activism

Login or register to post comments
Printer-friendly version

Thu, 26/10/2006 - 5:37pm — Amy

The NAME GAME

I often think we do need a new name, just don't ask me to come up with a name!!!

Pros: * we might get more (and proper) recognition for this d***ed disease
* if we can get a proper name, it won't be taken as lightly as it often is, and we might not have to put up with people saying "Oh yes, I have that too, I'm so tired all the time"

Cons: * the confusion that would come with a name change
* some people might say that we really are making it up since we can't decide what to call it

I don't know when such a change should take place.

Just a few of my thoughts, my brain isn't the best at the moment, fighting a chest infection and asthma!! Sad

Login or register to post comments
Printer-friendly version

Wed, 14/03/2007 - 9:16pm — wallflowergirl

The NAME GAME

I've read many points of view on this issue and I agree with some on both sides.
I think that it's a name that does not even come close to describing what the illness is and it also uses words that have different meanings in common use.
I mean that Arthritis (which is also a syndrome) is only used to describe that syndrome and isn't used in common conversation but the word fatigue is used often and means something quite different to what the syndrome is.
Also ME isn't correct either so I think the name should be something that isn't used as an every day word, something that differentiates this syndrome/condition from the every day stuff so it can easily been seen to be different to getting fatigued from a 5km run. Or from being just tired.
The word Fatigue is over used as it is.
It's like trying to differentiate Migraine from a small pain in the head.

Also, fatigue (I have friends who like to call it toxic fatigue due to it's effects on the body) is very rearely the only symptom. The name needs to be something that also lets people know that there is more to this illness than being tired.
The list of major and common symptoms is quite long but very few people who don't have CFS or know someone with it, know about them.

I had been suffering with Fibro and CFS for almost a year before my mum read the Spoon theory and realised just how bad it all was. (I wasn't living at home when I hit my lowest point) I am lucky that my partner is so understanding.

Login or register to post comments
Printer-friendly version

Tue, 03/04/2007 - 10:38pm — Where's Dr Jean

The NAME GAME

Jean Macfarlane called it Chronic Viremia because she determined that the body remains in the viral attack-state long after the virus has been defeated. I think it's a very appropriate term, particularly given that one always appears to be suffering 'flu-like symptoms all year round.