Abstract

In previous qualitative research on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), researchers have focused on the experiences of patients with ME/CFS in tertiary care samples. This qualitative study examined the natural history of people with ME/CFS (n=19) from a community-based sample.

Findings highlighted multi-layered themes involving the illness experience and the physical construction of ME/CFS.

In addition, this study further illuminated unique sub-themes regarding community response and treatment, which have implications for understanding the progression of ME/CFS as well as experiences of those within patient networks. There is a need for more longitudinal qualitative research on epidemiological samples of patients with ME/CFS.

A qualitative natural history study of ME/CFS in the Community, by Valerie R. Anderson, Leonard A. Jason & Laura E. Hlavaty in Health Care for Women International, January 2014