What are the causes of ME/CFS?
Despite ongoing research, the cause of ME/CFS is not yet clear. In fact, there are a number of "causes". In many cases, onset appears to be linked to a stress to the immune system such as an acute infection (particularly viral), chemical exposure or immunisation. The symptoms do not clear up as would be expected; instead, they become chronic or may intensify and abate but never completely disappear, and are accompanied by profound fatigue and feelings of malaise. Occasionally, onset may be slow and insidious. There is also some evidence that certain common viruses are involved in the development of the syndrome.
By Elizabeth Ho
To celebrate the Society’s 25th Anniversary, a seminar with Dr Richard Schloeffel, a GP who specialises in treating CFS, was held. Dr Schloeffel addressed a capacity crowd of 90 attendees. He spoke for approximately four hours and answered individual questions for another couple of hours following that.