Chronic fatigue syndrome – or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) – has long been the subject of controversy in the medical world.

Labelled 'yuppie flu' in the 1980s, for many years even its very existence was challenged by medical practitioners.

However, since the mid-1990s it's been generally accepted that the condition is a genuine illness, although the precise causes of it remain unknown.

There's been a wealth of research suggesting a viral link, and in some cases infections such as glandular ever, viral meningitis and viral hepatitis have been identified as triggers.

In dealing with a wide range of serious personal injury claims, we regularly act for clients who've developed CFS within a short time of being involved in a road traffic accident.

Although it remains a controversial area, there's a body of medical opinion supporting the theory that CFS can be triggered by a traumatic event such as a road accident, even in the absence of any physical injury. A detailed investigation of the claimant's medical history will be required to rule out any other possible cause.

The overriding symptom of CFS is a overwhelming and unexplained fatigue lasting longer than six months. It's accompanied by a profound lack of energy described as being very different from 'everyday tiredness'.

As well as the fatigue, a number of other common symptoms include muscular pain, problems with short-term memory and concentration, nausea, dizziness and swollen lymph glands. The fatigue is made worse by exertion and isn't relieved by rest. Sleep is shallow and non-refreshing.

People suffering CFS may look fit and healthy, so loved ones and peers often have difficulty understanding and accepting the condition. The sufferer may be able to carry out normal activities for a few days, but the nature of the disability is the inability to sustain normal levels of activity for any length of time.

The onset of CFS can have devastating consequences on all areas of the sufferer's life. We've acted for clients who've been unable to return to their previous work. Part-time work of a gentle non- stressful nature is often all that a sufferer can manage in the long-term. This can lead to severe financial hardship.

Treatment for CFS is itself a subject of controversy; there is no known cure. Management of the condition typically consists of advice to maintain non-stressful, daily agenda 'pacing'. Some recommend cognitive behavioural therapy, but there's little evidence that it has more than a temporary effect.

When acting for clients with CFS it's essential to instruct the right medical expert with suitable expertise in this field.

As the name suggests, CFS tends to be a long-lasting illness, with some patients remaining ill for several decades.

Claims can be very substantial, particularly when they involve the loss of a career and inability to work in the long term.

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