It is thought that about 75% of people diagnosed with M.E. improve to some degree in time; however the percentage of those with severe M.E. who recover is very low, at probably less than 5%.  Overall, many improve up to a certain point, but never regain full health and have to live within certain limits  -  such as sticking to particular diets, working on a part-time basis (if at all) and carefully pacing themselves.  Unfortunately the other 25% may become permanently disabled by their condition and find themselves very dependent on others in order to manage from day to day. At its very worst M.E. can be fatal; it seems likely that this is most often associated with the development of heart problems.

Those who make the best progress tend to be those who get an early diagnosis and so learn to manage the illness properly, with the help and support of their G.P., family and friends. Children especially do tend to make good recoveries, even if severely affected for a number of years. 

Unfortunately for some it can take months or even years to obtain a firm diagnosis.  During the intervening time they push themselves too hard  -  possibly resulting in long-term damage which could have been avoided with early diagnosis and management advice.

Although there are certain symptoms common to all M.E. sufferers, M.E. is a very individual illness, with different people experiencing different problems. Just because some people are severely affected by M.E. for many years doesn't mean that you will be - there are things that you can do which will help you to manage your condition. Remember, even if you have been ill for years, don't give up! It is never too late to start learning about the illness, and it is possible to make progress even after many years.

Most people with M.E. find that there are certain things that cause their symptoms to worsen, resulting in a relapse in their condition e.g. exercise, further infections, anaesthetics, antibiotics, vaccinations, pesticides and alcohol.

One of the characteristics of M.E. is its fluctuating nature, with patterns of good and bad stages.  Those with M.E. often find that they are turned from active, independent people into those who are dependent on others, unable to live their lives as they did before the onset of their illness.  This on its own can cause a loss of self-confidence  -  and friends and relatives of those with M.E. should, where possible, give help and encouragement to boost the confidence of the sufferer.  However, compared with those who suffer from depressive illness, people with M.E. tend to retain good motivation and appreciation of life.

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