ME Sufferers Rely On Alternative Medicines

More than a third of patients with long-term fatigue conditions like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) believe complementary and alternative medicines(CAMs) are more effective than traditional medicine in treating their illness, research launched at the British Pharmaceutical Conference (BPC) in Manchester reveals.98% of patients believed alternative therapy should be available through the NHS. Researchers from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen found that sufferers of chronic conditions had relief from their symptoms when they used CAMs.The findings showed:- About 34% of participants believed that CAMs were more effective in alleviating their symptoms (including pain and malaise, or a general feeling of low energy and of being unwell) than traditional medicines;- 60% believed that taking CAMs kept them well;- 73% of participants who reported using CAMs believed that it had improved their health;- Of those who reported using chiropractics, 83% said they very satisfied with the treatment- 46% believed that a combination of CAM and orthodox medicine was better than using traditional medicine alone. Lead researcher, Dr Yash Kumarasamy said: "Many patients who have a long-term fatigue condition turn to alternative therapies because they feel that orthodox treatments failed to work for them, or because theyexperienced a lack of support from their healthcare team." "Patients need to know how important it is to consult a healthcare professional before they take complementary or alternative medicines, or stop taking prescription medication. Pharmacists don't just dispense medicines - they are healthcare professionals with a broad range of knowledge and can help people with expert advice and support in managingtheir health. "About Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is a chronic, inflammatory, primarily neurological disease that affects the central nervous system, the immune system, the cardiovascular system, the endocrinological system and muscoskeletal system. It can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including changes in sensory tolerance, visual problems, exertional muscle weakness,difficulties with co-ordination and speech, severe fatigue, cognitive impairment, problems with balance, subnormal or poor body temperature control and pain.

National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week Starts Tomorrow!

Have you heard about National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week? September 8-14, 2008 will feature 20 seminars via Blog Talk Radio, (4 per day, M-F) plus tons of people are helping spread the word by blogging about invisible illness issues. Do you get tired of hearing, “But you look so good?” or weary of the stares when you park in a handicapped spot? This is our chance to educate the public as well as remember we are not alone. Nearly 1 in 2 people in the USA live with an illness and 96% of it is invisible.
So join the cause today! They have daily guest bloggers at www.invisibleillnessblog.com, lots or prizes, articles, and it’s a great way to make some new friends and attend a conference without ever leaving your home. The main web site is: www.invisibleillness.com .
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Want More Information? Contact Lisa Copen at lisa@invisibleillness.com . Lisa is available for interviews via radio, internet radio, blogs, etc. or 858-486-4685 (voice mail, we'll call you right back!)