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Patient perspectives of recovery from myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: An interpretive description study.
- Source :
-
Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice . Mar2024, Vol. 30 Issue 2, p234-242. 9p. - Publication Year :
- 2024
-
Abstract
- Aims and Objectives: Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also called chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is characterised by persistent fatigue, postexertional malaise, and cognitive dysfunction. It is a complex, long‐term, and debilitating illness without widely effective treatments. This study describes the treatment choices and experiences of ME/CFS patients who have experienced variable levels of recovery. Method: Interpretive description study consisting of semi‐structured qualitative interviews with 33 people who met the US Centers for Disease Control (2015) diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS and report recovery or symptom improvement. Results: Twenty‐six participants endorsed partial recovery, and seven reported full recovery from ME/CFS. Participants reported expending significant time and energy to identify, implement, and adapt therapeutic interventions, often without the guidance of a medical practitioner. They formulated individualised treatment plans reflecting their understanding of their illness and personal resources. Most fully recovered participants attributed their success to mind‐body approaches. Conclusion: Patients with ME/CFS describe independently constructing and managing treatment plans, due to a lack of health system support. Stigmatised and dismissive responses from clinicians precipitated disengagement from the medical system and prompted use of other forms of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 13561294
- Volume :
- 30
- Issue :
- 2
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 176118633
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1111/jep.13938