Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

My GP is considering the possiblity that I have a chronic fatigue syndrome which is going to be difficult to treat as I cannot go off work sick as i will likely be let go

Has anyone any experience with this type of thing and if so what kind of treatments worked best?

[Hidden]

ME

1. For your job.

I have had ME/CFS and Fibromialga for many years (although much better these days). I lost my job because of it and went through some battles with my employer over 3 years with little help on their part. My advice is to get a good union rep first of all - ME is covered by the Disability Act. Get some good information about ME from the ME Association (good website) to give to the rep so they can understand the issues. MEA Also has advice leaflets on employment problems as well btw.

2. For the possible ME.

Get a consultant diagnoses ASAP!!! GP's are not very up on ME - you need specialist advise - ask for a referral.

Use regular PACEing methods - (again the MEA has leaflets on this) at work and at home. Take regular breaks as allowed and sit (or lie is even better - in your car if employer can't make a room available) close your eyes and do some deep breathing relaxation exercise if you have energy or if not just close eyes and rest for around 20 mins (more if you feel its needed - everyones different). Even 5 mins better than nothing. Use a 'invest before using' method. with ME you have to bank energy before using it! Actually, this is a good method for anyone!

If it turns out you do have ME I might mention I did the Gupta Technique (just type Gupta into web server) and had loads of success to the point I have now completed training for new career and doing regular voluntary work with hopes of earning money again soon! But have to make it clear it doesn't work for everyone - you have to be diligent in finding what works for you.

Good luck!

[Hidden]

Thanks for your reply and information. If I am diagnosed I will be contacting my union rep right away as he has helped me with asthma issues also recently. I have done a little bit of reading up just incase I am diagnosed and although my GP said it would be advisable for me to be off for a couple of months (which i simply cannot do) some actually seem to advise that its best to try and NOT stop work alltogether as it makes it harder to go back so I think Id probably go down the route of having extra breaks and if really necessary reduving my hours for a month or two which I think my employer would find more acceptable. I just find it shocking that im working for the government and they think its a-ok to treat their employees in this way to make them terified of having an illness.

Go back on 13th as I had loads of blood tests to rule out thyroid problems and a few other things which im not too sure of what they are but at least im on the right road to get some kind of diagnosis. Im sure my GP did mention a referral if these tests come back normal and I must say the doctor I have regulary seen in my surgery has been very understanding, I went to another Gp with similar symptoms before and all he wanted to do was give me antidepressants and made me feel like I was wasting his time

Sorry for the bit of ranting there!!

Thanks again for your advice and I hope you get back to work soon and keep well

[Hidden]

google chronic fatigue and buteyko

Hi

I know that several people have had success with CFS by changing their breathing pattern using buteyko. Google "" chronic Fatigue and buteyko"" and see many results.

good luck with it

Eoin