Wollongong ME/CFS/FM (Myalgic Encephalopathy/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Fibromyalgia) Support Group

 

Help us break free

 

Welcome to the Wollongong ME/CFS/FM Support Group's website.
We are here to help all people with an interest in ME/CFS/FM.
It is our aim to provide friendship, encouragement and support for one another, whilst disseminating information re Myalgic Encephalopathy, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia.

What is ME or CFS?
ME/CFS is not tiredness or extreme tiredness, but a severe flu-like illness that is usually precipitated by a virus, for example glandular fever or Ross River fever. Symptoms patients may suffer include headaches, memory and concentration problems, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, irritable bowel, disturbed sleep, exhaustion after minor effort, food allergies/sensitivities and sensitivity to bright light and noise. CFS is also known as Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (mainly in the USA) and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (mainly in the UK).

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) patients suffer very similar symptoms but pain is much more prominent. Patients are diagnosed by the presence of 11 or more tender points (out of a possible 18).

Both illnesses may be severely disabling, with some patients being largely bed bound. While many studies report higher levels of certain physical abnormalities in CFS/FM patients than in the healthy population, there currently isn't a validated diagnostic test. Diagnosis is made on the basis of symptom presentation.