Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Other Invisible Illnesses: The Comprehensive Guide

A completely updated edition of the CFIDS classic Running on Empty

Once you were active, energetic, unstoppable. Now you can’t seem to get better. . .

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or CFIDS) is a complex illness characterized primarily by severe, persistent fatigue. Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a condition of widespread muscular and joint pain, with specific tender points on the body. Both of these “invisible” illnesses are also accompanied by a mix of physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms such as sore throat, persistent headache, brain fog, sleep disturbance, balance problems, anxiety and depression. This book is a definitive guide to virtually every aspect of CFS and FMS.

Written frankly and compassionately, the book describes the first signs of illness, the difficult process of diagnosis and the frustrating search for effective treatment. Detailed chapters based on the latest research and reports from patients cover:

• what we know about causes of CFS and FMS, and whether they are related
• the whole range of symptoms and diagnostic techniques for both conditions
• proven and experimental treatment and self-care options, including complementary and alternative methods

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Other Invisible Illnesses also addresses the sensitivities and allergies found in CFS/FMS and similar conditions such as lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome and Gulf War syndrome. It includes a chapter on CFS and FMS in children and gives invaluable advice on dealing with relationship and professional issues as well as the lifestyle changes that accompany these conditions. This book is what every CFS or FMS patient needs to live fully and successfully.

Katrina Berne, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who has been in private practice for 22 years, specializing in the treatment of persons with chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia syndrome, and related disorders. Dr. Berne, who has had CFS since 1985 with secondary FMS, has taught college courses, is widely published in the field and speaks at local and national seminars, workshops and support groups for people with CFS/FMS. 

Daniel L. Peterson, M.D., a specialist and researcher at Sierra Internal Medicine in Incline Village, NV, has specialized in the treatment of CFS for over 15 years.

Robert M. Bennett, M.D., FRCP, FACP, is a rheumatologist and a professor at Oregon Health and Science University.