A qualitative natural history study of ME/CFS in the community

Health Care Women Int. 2014 Jan;35(1):3-26. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2012.684816. Epub 2013 Feb 27.

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 multilayered themes involving the illness experience and the physical construction of ME/CFS. In addition, this study further illuminated unique subthemes 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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / diagnosis
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / psychology
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Physician-Patient Relations
  • Qualitative Research
  • Quality of Life*
  • Residence Characteristics
  • Self Concept*
  • Social Support
  • Surveys and Questionnaires