Cologne: Brave Cologne native fights me/CFS - help urgently needed!

Cologne: Brave Cologne native fights me/CFS - help urgently needed!

Köln-Ehrenfeld, Deutschland - In Cologne, a young woman, Luisa (name changed), fights in her early thirties, for four years with the devastating effects of ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome). Despite their moderate concern compared to many others, which are severely restricted and sometimes in need of care, the disease has significantly impaired its quality of life. Before the disease was looking for it, Luisa was active, sporty and pursued clear professional goals that she had to give up now. According to Focus School day after an intensive studies before her life changed drastically.

ME/CFS is increasingly taken into account as a severe multi-system disease, which is often triggered by viral infections such as covid. The symptoms range from massive physical weakness to high sensitivity to light, sounds and smells to heartbeat and fluctuations in blood pressure. People who suffer from ME/CFS also report flu -like symptoms and a significant restriction of their quality of life. In Germany, an estimated approximately 700,000 people are affected, although the quality of life of ME/CFS patients is even lower on average than those affected by affected with multiple sclerosis, stroke or lung cancer, shows a current study.

Post-Exertual Malaise as a central symptom

A particularly typical feature of ME/CFS is the post-exertative malaise (PEM), which means specifically that physical and mental activities can lead to a deterioration in symptoms. According to mecfs.de , the severity of PEM varies greatly between those affected. Some experience their symptoms tightened by everyday activities such as going to the toilet, while others "crash" after extensive shopping or long walks. This deterioration can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, difficulties of concentration and even flu -like symptoms.

according to Gesundheitsinformation.de are the symptoms of Me/CFS not only physical complaints, but also serious sleep disorders and cognitive challenges. A complete healing has not yet been in sight, but certain treatment approaches could contribute to alleviating symptoms, for example through energy management, also known as pacing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

hope and new initiatives

In June 2021, Luisa suffered a serious vaccination damage after her covid vaccination, which led to the development of ME/CFS. Despite these challenges, there is a ray of hope: Luisa hopes for new therapies and increased political support for research and medical care for ME/CFS sufferers. She dreams of starting a family, being active in her profession and participating in social life.

A special event is just around the corner: On July 6, 2025, the Rothehaus Straßenfest will take place in Cologne-Ehrenfeld, which will collect donations for the #LiegligangeDemo Cologne initiative. This initiative was founded in July 2022 and is committed to clarification and more attention around Me/CFS.