Information for Healthcare Providers

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, chronic, debilitating disease with systemic effects. ME/CFS is characterized by reduced ability to perform pre-illness activities that lasts for more than 6 months and is accompanied by profound fatigue, which is not improved by rest. A hallmark of ME/CFS is that symptoms can worsen after physical, mental, or emotional effort, a manifestation known as post-exertional malaise (PEM). Patients with ME/CFS also have unrefreshing sleep. Other common manifestations are orthostatic intolerance, cognitive impairment, and pain. As can be observed in people with other long-term chronic illnesses, secondary psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety may also be present in some patients with ME/CFS.

Healthcare Provider Toolkit
ME/CFS Assessment Overview

ME/CFS educational resources to help healthcare providers with patient care, including assessment, managing ME/CFS symptoms and providing other supportive strategies to improve patients’ quality of life.

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Medscape Continuing Medical Education (CME)

CDC has partnered with Medscape to offer five continuing medical education (CME) activities for healthcare providers. All courses can be accessed by either a desktop computer or a mobile device.

Resources
Disclaimer: The findings and conclusions in these documents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).