A new study showed a retrovirus called MLV was found in chronic fatigue research subjects. I was quite happy to read about this study from NIH because people who suffer with it are often stigmatized. Many medical professionals don’t support it as a diagnosis. It has been considered a diagnosis of exclusion. Meaning since nothing else fits, lets call it Chronic Fatigue. In essence, many medical professionals don’t belief the debilitating symptoms and think the patient needs anti depressants.
If you are one of those patients, life becomes an endless search for someone who believes you and will offer some treatment. There are few primary care providers who accept this diagnosis and it can cause much tension between patient and doctor. On first presentation the PCP hearing the symptoms will do the usual work up. When nothing comes back abnormal, the patient is left with the often spoken, let’s wait or I don’t think there is anything else I can do for you. Since a Chronic Fatigue diagnosis consists of of list of criteria, most PCPs are unable to offer it as a diagnosis.
Patients are frequently forced to look outside traditional medicine to find any support or treatment. Complimentary medicine has embraced Chronic Fatigue as a diagnosis and does offer treatments. However, it is all out of pocket. Most medical professionals who accept Chronic Fatigue as a diagnosis charge as high as $600.00 for the first visit and order many lab tests which are often not insurance covered.
This study doesn’t mean much will change for treatment or in medical circles in regards to Chronic Fatigue. It will generate more research and possible treatment options. It will take time but with positive result, people with symptoms may get a diagnosis and not be stigmatized.
