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ME in Childhood: How the Paediatrician Can Help

Posted on Charity Resources Recommendations

This document, written by Dr Nigel Speight, a consultant paediatrician with many years of experience treating children and young people with ME, explains how healthcare professionals can better diagnose, support and manage children affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME).

The Importance of Diagnosis

A timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial. ME is often missed because healthcare professionals may focus on a single symptom, such as fatigue, rather than taking a full clinical history.

ME is characterised by:

  • Reduced energy levels.
  • Severe exhaustion following activity.
  • Cognitive difficulties, including confusion and memory problems.
  • Sensitivity to noise, light and movement.
  • Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM), also known as Post-Exertional Symptom Exacerbation (PESE), where symptoms worsen after physical, mental or sensory activity.

The 2021 NICE Guideline recognises PEM as a key feature of ME.

https://25megroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/ME-in-Childhood-How-the-Paediatrician-Can-Help.pdf

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