Guidelines for Hospital Treatment of ME Patients

Purpose: To provide essential advice and best practices for treating Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) patients in hospital settings, addressing their unique needs and sensitivities to improve outcomes.

Key Points:

1. Hospital Environment Challenges:
   • Noise, light, and sensory overload worsen symptoms; private rooms and quiet spaces are necessary.
   • Sleep disruption due to hypersensitivity requires careful consideration to avoid impacting recovery.
2. Chemical and Drug Sensitivities:
   • ME patients often react negatively to chemicals and drugs, including anaesthetics and cleaning solutions.
   • Adrenaline-free local anaesthetics and specific pre-surgery hydration and supplement protocols are recommended.
   • Caution is needed with sedative analgesics, muscle relaxants, and general anaesthetics to prevent severe reactions.
3. Surgery Considerations:
   • Surgery should be undertaken only when absolutely necessary, with pre-assessments accounting for hypoglycaemia, respiratory function, and abnormal heart rates.
   • Post-surgery exercises typically prescribed for recovery are unsuitable due to muscle weakness and energy depletion.
4. Exercise and ME:
   • ME patients experience severe post-exertional malaise, and any forced activity can lead to relapses, permanent paralysis, or cardiac risks.
   • Physiotherapy and recovery must prioritize minimal exertion and careful monitoring.
5. Diet and Allergies:
   • Hypersensitivity to preservatives, additives, and chemicals in hospital food and tap water requires personalized dietary accommodations.
   • Allergies to latex, medications, or egg-based anaesthetics (e.g., Propofol) should be carefully addressed.

Target Audience: Healthcare providers, caregivers, hospital staff, and ME patients seeking informed strategies for safe and effective treatment.

Overall Outcome: This booklet highlights the importance of tailored care for ME patients, advocating for quiet hospital environments, careful drug administration, and personalized dietary and exercise plans to prevent exacerbation of symptoms and improve recovery prospects.