From hospitalization to recovery: Leah's Dr. Lerner ME/CFS Recovery Story

Source of the Story

Provided to Health Rising

Name

Leah

Diagnosis

1. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Disease Course Over Time

A Civil Engineer for the Dept of Defense, Leah was very active prior to getting ill. A series of sinus and bladder infections appeared to trigger it. She became ill at 32 in 1996. At her worst she could not get out of bed without passing out. She suffered from severe vertigo and went from 115 lbs to 89 lbs.. She was hospitalized several times.

She recovered for seven years and then relapsed again. A second course of Valtrex worked. She is able to work full time, go skiing, golfing, socializing and exercises three times a week but it is careful not to overdo it

Type of Onset

gradual flu-like; series of colds

Approximate Date of Illness Began

1996-2000

Duration

6-10 years

Functionality at it's Worst

Mostly bedbound

Symptoms

Severe vertigo, weight loss, exhaustion

Antiviral or Immune Modulators That Made a Difference for You

Valtrex

Other Treatments That Made a Big Difference

Stress reduction, yoga and pacing

Present State of Health

1. Leads near normal life but cannot exercise vigorously

Practitioner Associated With Recovery

Dr. Martin Lerner

Words of Advice

Doctor Lerner has been instrumental in my recovery. Make sure you are tested for all other sources of the fatigue/systems. Antiviral treatment has worked best for me. Listen to your body. When you are tired....rest. Plan ahead and reduce stress by yoga or other relaxation techniques. When you get an infection it must be treated aggressively. Try to avoid medicines that just treat the symptoms and not the virus/infection. Drink recommended water intake with the Valtrex.

Suggested Resources

Dr. Martin Lerner - http://www.treatmentcenterforcfs.com/ - and yoga