Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Compensation

Contact us today to discuss how we can offer you a more specialist service for your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)/ME compensation claim.

Speak directly to one of our specialist solicitors on 01225 462871. Alternatively, you can email us, or complete the Contact Form at the foot of this page.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Compensation Claims

We successfully represent many people pursuing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Compensation Claims. Our clients are those who either develop the condition following an accident, or where an accident exacerbates their condition. To find out more about chronic fatigue syndrome compensation claims, contact us today and speak directly to one of our specialist team.

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In most cases, we can act on a No Win/No Fee basis. Find out more about legal costs.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also referred to as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is one of a number of conditions caused by changes to the central nervous system (CNS). When this happens, the CNS becomes highly sensitive, requiring less stimulation to provoke symptoms such as overwhelming fatigue, pain, insomnia, headaches, nausea, flu-like symptoms and problems with memory and concentration.

Other conditions caused by central sensitisation include Fibromyalgia, Coccydynia and Da Costa’s Syndrome. Doctors now recognise that these conditions all share a common underlying cause. Accordingly, the various diagnostic ‘tags’ are now considered unhelpful because their use suggests the existence of entirely different conditions when in reality, there is considerable overlap. For example, many of our clients diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are concurrently diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.

New, more general, names have now been coined to help address the confusion, but have yet to be widely accepted or used; most commonly, ‘central sensitisation syndrome’.

“When my ME returned with a vengeance following a road accident I was so lucky to find Bruce Dyer and BLB. Bruce is so knowledgeable, understanding and supportive. The other side fought the claim tooth and nail but Bruce was always so positive and we came through in the end.” AS (£282,500 recovered)

Read a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Compensation Claims Case Study

Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome real?

Fortunately, conditions resulting from central sensitisation are now generally accepted by doctors as genuine. There is broad consensus for a link with abnormalities of neural processing within the central nervous system resulting in normal bodily sensations being perceived as unpleasant and distressing.

Chemical, electrical, physical and functional changes are identifiable in the brain. In other words, there are clear, objective signs of disease. It’s thought a number of factors are involved in some people being more susceptible, including genetics. These objective signs can help medical experts establish a causal link between a triggering event (an accident) and your condition.

Support and information

Understandably, many people suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome would say that they exist rather than live with the condition. Extreme tiredness and other symptoms mean that carrying out everyday activities is very difficult and often impossible. Whilst lifestyle changes can help to a limited extent, it is also helpful to talk to and share your experiences with other sufferers.

There are many online forums and groups, and in the UK, the ME Association is proactive in supporting sufferers and providing information and other resources.

How is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome diagnosed?

Whilst chemical, electrical, physical and functional changes are identifiable in the brains of sufferers, no specific test currently exists to diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There are guidelines for doctors to follow in diagnosing the condition, but ultimately the diagnosis is one of exclusion, ie by excluding all other likely causes of illness.

The doctor determines your symptoms by taking a full medical history and carrying out a physical examination. As some of the symptoms of ME are similar to those of other conditions, the doctor will wish to confirm or exclude the presence of those other conditions. This process may involve testing blood and urine. Typically, the doctor is looking for signs of conditions such as an underactive thyroid gland, diabetes, liver and kidney problems or anaemia.

“I really can’t imagine where I’d be now if I hadn’t found you. You’re so kind and understanding. If it hadn’t been for your constant encouragement I don’t think I’d have been able to see the claim through. Thank you so much.” EF (£146,000 recovered)

How is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome treated?

There is no one treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; treatment to relieve symptoms is tailored to you. In recent years, as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has gained mainstream acceptance, specialist services are increasingly available. These services adopt a multi-disciplinary approach, with input from:

  • specialist doctors and nurses;
  • occupational therapists;
  • physiotherapists;
  • cognitive behavioural therapists;
  • dieticians.

Treatments for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Typically, treatment will involve a combination of:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Refers to a range of talking/counselling-based therapies focusing on how your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes affect your feelings and behaviour. CBT aims to help you accept your condition and develop coping skills.
  • Medication helps address symptoms such as pain, nausea and insomnia. One of the most common medications prescribed is Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant. Despite its antidepressant label, it also aids sleep and helps relieve muscle pain.
  • Graded Exercise Therapy (GET) is a structured exercise programme that gradually increases over time. A trained therapist tailors a programme to your needs. Typically, the programme involves exercises such as walking or swimming, which, whilst gentle, nevertheless increases your heart rate. Your therapist sets achievement goals, increasing over time. However, GET is controversial. Whilst many experts argue it’s proven and safe, others believe it leads to serious relapses in some cases.
  • Vitamins B9 (Folic Acid) and B12. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in ensuring the normal function of the brain and nervous system. Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9 or folate, is most commonly associated with pregnant women, who take it as a supplement during pregnancy. Research demonstrates that taking folic acid in conjunction with vitamin B12 is particularly beneficial to those diagnosed with both ME and Fibromyalgia. It seems that higher doses of these supplements lead to a greater reduction in symptoms. But a word of caution…those who took folic acid and vitamin B12 in addition to daily doses of certain medications – Duloxetine, Pregabalin and opiate-based painkillers – benefitted less from taking the supplements. Despite that, doctors treating both ME and Fibromyalgia commonly explore with their patients ways of incorporating these supplements into their daily medication regime.

Compensation for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Just like other conditions of central sensitisation, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can develop following an accident or injury. Speak to one of our specialist team on 01225 462871 about claiming compensation. Alternatively, you can email us, or complete the Contact Form at the foot of this page.

“I have to say that at first I was sceptical that you really understood what I was going through but you’ve proved that you absolutely do know your onions! Thank you for everything.” MP (£185,000 recovered)

Why do you need a specialist solicitor for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome compensation claims?

Over the years, we have worked with many people who have developed Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or other conditions of central sensitisation following an accident. As a result, we have an unrivalled understanding of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and excellent working relationships with many of the country’s leading medical experts in the condition. As Chronic Fatigue Syndrome solicitors, this is knowledge and expertise we use daily for our clients’ benefit.

We understand the fundamental importance of seeking early specialist treatment and arranging funding for treatment fees. We also understand just how critical are regular interim payments to keep your head above water financially until your claim settles.

In summary, when you instruct us, expect:

  • access to leading experts in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome to get you the specialist medical help you so desperately need;
  • regular requests for early interim payments to help you financially and to fund the cost of treatment and rehabilitation as recommended by the medical experts;
  • consideration as to whether you would benefit from a medically qualified case manager to coordinate your treatment, rehabilitation, purchase of specialist equipment and any adaptations to your home.

What will happen when you call us?

For a free, confidential discussion, contact us on 01225 462871. Alternatively, you can email us, or complete the Contact Form at the bottom of this page.

One of our specialist team will be waiting to speak with you. They will talk through your situation and make an initial assessment of your case. If we believe we can help, and you are happy to instruct us, we will take your claim forward.