Medical Papers By Dr Betty Downset
Purpose To summarize the discussions and outcomes of two All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) meetings on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), emphasizing key topics and stakeholder concerns. Key Points February 2007 Meeting Guest speakers included representatives from NICE, who addressed the development of draft guidelines on ME/CFS. Concerns were raised over the “blanket recommendation” of CBT…
Purpose To provide a detailed account of the discussions, decisions, and presentations from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) meeting on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). Key Points Re-Election of Officers Dr. Des Turner MP was re-elected as Chair, supported by other existing officers. Presentation on NHS Services Dr. Terry Mitchell, clinical champion for ME/CFS in East Anglia,…
Purpose To provide an overview of recent developments in government initiatives and research efforts aimed at improving care, support, and understanding of ME/CFS. Key Points Consultation Feedback Analysis of responses to the interim delivery plan, “My Full Reality,” emphasized the need for enhanced healthcare services and increased research funding. Parliamentary Engagement Discussions and written questions…
Purpose: To examine the long-term impacts of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), its parallels with Post-Polio Syndrome, and the need for improved recognition, research, and management strategies. Key Points: Nature of ME: ME is a chronic neurological illness caused by enteroviral infections, leading to multi-system impacts, including skeletal, cardiac, and endocrine organ damage. Symptoms include overwhelming fatigue,…
Purpose: To outline the historical context, research developments, and modern advancements in understanding how persistent enteroviral infections contribute to chronic neurological diseases like ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis). Key Points: Historical Context: Early 20th-century research identified non-paralytic poliomyelitis linked to neurological issues. Advances, such as the discovery of Coxsackie viruses, demonstrated how non-polio enteroviruses could affect neurological…
Purpose: To explore the origins, increasing prevalence, clinical features, and management of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), addressing its paradoxical rise in “affluent” communities. Key Points: Origin and Nature of ME/CFS: ME/CFS is a neurological disorder often triggered by viral infections and was historically linked to non-paralytic poliomyelitis. Increases in ME/CFS were observed following the decline of…
Purpose: To explore the discovery and development of stem cells in the adult human brain, their therapeutic potential, and their implications for chronic neurological and other illnesses. Key Points: Introduction to Stem Cells: Stem cells are “uncommitted” cells from early embryonic development that later specialize to support various organs and tissues. Embryonic stem cells have…
Purpose: To provide crucial guidance for individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) undergoing surgical procedures, focusing on anaesthetics, pain control, and key medical considerations. Key Points: Communication: Patients and carers should inform medical teams about their condition, especially anaesthetists, for personalized care. In emergencies, relatives or friends must highlight ME-related concerns to the surgical team. Drug…
Purpose: To provide a detailed exploration of sleep issues faced by individuals suffering from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), including their causes, impact, and possible treatments. Key Points: Normal Sleep Stages: Sleep is an alteration in consciousness, influenced by circadian rhythms and stages like REM and non-REM sleep. Non-REM sleep progresses through four stages, leading to deep…
Purpose: This document critiques the evolving definitions of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) throughout the 20th century. It highlights the impact of shifting terminology on research, diagnosis, and patient care, advocating for a return to descriptive definitions rooted in clinical observations. Key Points: Historical Definitions of ME/CFS Poliomyelitis-like Illness (1910–1958): ME/CFS was initially described as…
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