Woman with head down" Progress in the understanding of CFS/ME, its nature and management, has increased wonderfully over the past 10 years as more and more countries, researchers, and clinicians have become involved. There is much reason for hope."

 

— Alan Gurwitt, M.D.

Retired clinician

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What about kids?

Children develop ME/CFS, but they are often misdiagnosed. An accurate pediatric definition of ME/CFS has only been in existence since 2006.

Children tend to experience symptoms of short-term memory and concentration problems, dizziness, light-headedness, abdominal pain, rash, fever, and chills. They frequently experience profound fatigue as well, although they may have difficulty expressing their complaints or judging the severity of their condition.

Thus, some people may incorrectly perceive that the child is developing progressive learning and social difficulties rather than a physical illness. (Please see our Pediatric ME/CFS section for more information.)