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Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You...That You Need to Know
From the author of Living Well With Hypothyroidism , a comprehensive guide to the diagnosis and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia--vital help for the millions of people suffering from pain, fatigue, and sleep problems. Recent studies indicate that 3 to 6 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia--a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points. This terrible condition is often accompanied by chronic fatigue syndrome, a persistent and debilitating sense of exhaustion that is estimated to affect 800,000 Americans--twice the number of people with multiple sclerosis. Yet there are no official blood tests of diagnostic procedures that can confirm that yes, you definitely have these conditions, and in fact, a whole segment of the medical world doesn't even believe these two diseases actually exist. In addition, the few books that are on the market tend to focus on single solutions or eschew conventional and pharmaceutical approaches, which could alienate readers who use conventional medicine in whole or part. In her trademark accessible, easy-to-follow style, patient advocate Mary J. Shomon integrates the latest findings regarding these misunderstood conditions. Highlighting the pros and cons of the antibiotic, metabolic/endocrine, hormonal, musculoskeletal, and many other approaches to treatment, Shomon explores the fads and viable alternatives--both conventional and alternative--and provides helpful, clear solutions to help sufferers of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. At various points since 1995, Mary J. Shomon has been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Since then, she has transformed her health challenges into a mission as a nationally-known patient advocate. She has worked for more than 20 years in writing, advertising, public relations, and communications and is the founder and editor-in-chief of several thyroid, autoimmune, and nutrition newsletters, as well as the internet's most popular thyroid disease website, www.thyroid-info.com.
- GenresHealthNonfictionMedical
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
January 31, 2013
Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia is a good basic introduction that covers a lot of ground without losing coherence. Written in an accessible style and well organized, Shomon's book is probably the best place to start if you haven't already done a lot of reading on the subject.
The strongest parts of this book are the chapters that explain the "nitty gritty" of CFS/ME: etiology, how the immune system works, and the origins of various symptoms. Shomon manages these complex topics competently, without devolving into excessive technical jargon.
Shomon's discussion of causes covers all the "usual suspects" - bacterial infections (mycoplasma, chlamydia and tick-borne infections), viruses (HHV-6, Q fever, and stealth viruses), and candidiasis. But Shomon really shines when she discusses the effects of CFS/ME: immune system dysfunction (autoimmunity, low NK cell function and the Th1/Th2 shift), endocrine disorders (hypoadrenalism, hypothyroidism, and human growth hormone deficiency), central nervous system dysfunction, allergies and chemical sensitivities. These are the aspects of CFS/ME in which Shomon shows the greatest interest and expertise (undoubtedly due to the extensive research on all these areas).
There are weaknesses inherent in a broad survey of this type. The first is that Shomon, like Dr. Teitelbaum (who wrote the Forward) lumps CFS/ME and fibromyalgia together as CFS/Fibromyalgia. This is a mistake. Although there may be a great deal of overlap in symptoms, CFS/ME and fibromyalgia are not the same illness. (This distinction is borne out by research studies which show different results for the two groups.)
Many people with CFS/ME do not experience fibromyalgia pain. More significantly, people with fibromyalgia tend to improve with exercise while those with CFS/ME suffer a decline. (Exercise intolerance is the hallmark symptom of CFS/ME.) What's more, while I have met many people with CFS/ME who have fibromyalgia as a secondary diagnosis, I have yet to meet a single person with fibromyalgia who has CFS/ME as a secondary diagnosis. CFS/ME is clearly the heavyweight here.
The second weakness in this book is that Shomon's discussions of treatments are cursory at best. At times she only devotes a sentence or two to treatments which have been utilized for decades and omits others entirely. In this regard, "what your doctor doesn't tell you" is a misleading subtitle for this book. If you see a CFS/ME specialist, chances are that he or she will tell you a great deal more about treatments than Shomon does.
Aside from these two admittedly serious faults, the book stands up well as an initial introduction. However, I would advise anyone with either CFS/ME or fibromyalgia to continue reading. There are a number of other books that discuss both illnesses more thoroughly. Comment | Permalink
The strongest parts of this book are the chapters that explain the "nitty gritty" of CFS/ME: etiology, how the immune system works, and the origins of various symptoms. Shomon manages these complex topics competently, without devolving into excessive technical jargon.
Shomon's discussion of causes covers all the "usual suspects" - bacterial infections (mycoplasma, chlamydia and tick-borne infections), viruses (HHV-6, Q fever, and stealth viruses), and candidiasis. But Shomon really shines when she discusses the effects of CFS/ME: immune system dysfunction (autoimmunity, low NK cell function and the Th1/Th2 shift), endocrine disorders (hypoadrenalism, hypothyroidism, and human growth hormone deficiency), central nervous system dysfunction, allergies and chemical sensitivities. These are the aspects of CFS/ME in which Shomon shows the greatest interest and expertise (undoubtedly due to the extensive research on all these areas).
There are weaknesses inherent in a broad survey of this type. The first is that Shomon, like Dr. Teitelbaum (who wrote the Forward) lumps CFS/ME and fibromyalgia together as CFS/Fibromyalgia. This is a mistake. Although there may be a great deal of overlap in symptoms, CFS/ME and fibromyalgia are not the same illness. (This distinction is borne out by research studies which show different results for the two groups.)
Many people with CFS/ME do not experience fibromyalgia pain. More significantly, people with fibromyalgia tend to improve with exercise while those with CFS/ME suffer a decline. (Exercise intolerance is the hallmark symptom of CFS/ME.) What's more, while I have met many people with CFS/ME who have fibromyalgia as a secondary diagnosis, I have yet to meet a single person with fibromyalgia who has CFS/ME as a secondary diagnosis. CFS/ME is clearly the heavyweight here.
The second weakness in this book is that Shomon's discussions of treatments are cursory at best. At times she only devotes a sentence or two to treatments which have been utilized for decades and omits others entirely. In this regard, "what your doctor doesn't tell you" is a misleading subtitle for this book. If you see a CFS/ME specialist, chances are that he or she will tell you a great deal more about treatments than Shomon does.
Aside from these two admittedly serious faults, the book stands up well as an initial introduction. However, I would advise anyone with either CFS/ME or fibromyalgia to continue reading. There are a number of other books that discuss both illnesses more thoroughly. Comment | Permalink
October 16, 2023
With this comprehensive guide, you'll discover valuable insights and strategies for managing CFS and fibromyalgia effectively.
Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia afflict around 6 to 12 million Americans, creating a substantial impact on those affected by these conditions. Despite their prevalence, these disorders have posed a persistent mystery, leaving both patients and the medical community struggling to comprehend their intricacies.
In the quest for knowledge and relief, ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ by Mary J. Shomon emerges to bridge the knowledge gap surrounding these disorders.
Author’s background
In 1995, Mary J. Shomon received a diagnosis of thyroid disease, which became a catalyst for her to become a renowned patient advocate on a global scale.
Currently, Shomon serves as the thyroid and hormonal health patient expert for HealthCentral, where her articles reach millions of readers annually, catering to a global audience seeking reliable thyroid and hormonal health information. She also runs an email newsletter, Sticking Out Our Necks, which has amassed over 100,000 subscribers.
What is the book about?
‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ delves into the diagnosis and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia. The book rejects the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach, recognising the varied reasons and manifestations of CFS and fibromyalgia in each person. It also discusses how doctors diagnose these conditions in various ways, such as through tests or by understanding the person’s medical history and symptoms.
Mary Shomon, who has a personal experience with CFS, shares helpful insights and research to guide readers in managing these conditions. The book provides detailed guidance for diagnosis, explores different ideas about what causes CFS and fibromyalgia, and helps readers find suitable doctors and create personalised treatment plans. There is also a section with additional resources for further support and information.
Key takeaways from ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’
1. Finding the right doctor is crucial in overcoming CFS and fibromyalgia
‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ provides a detailed plan for finding the right practitioner or team of practitioners to effectively manage these conditions.
To find the best practitioners, it is crucial to consider specific qualities and features, such as gender preferences, cost and insurance coverage, experience, credentials, certification, and treatment focus (conventional or alternative).
Identifying candidates can involve seeking recommendations from friends, relatives, medical specialists, and health professionals. Conducting brief screening interviews via phone can further help to assess the compatibility of a practitioner with your needs. During these interviews, you can inquire about patient referrals, availability, appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and communication methods. Once a shortlist of potential practitioners is compiled, verifying their credentials through reliable sources is essential. It is crucial to gather as much information as possible about the doctors, their education, office policies, and payment procedures before making a decision.
2. Infection is one possible cause of CFS and fibromyalgia
Throughout the book, the author acknowledges that the cause of fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia is still unknown. However, Shomon raises a theory that there is a connection between CFS and fibromyalgia with infections caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi.
She cites studies that suggest a link, with chronic infections found in a significantly higher percentage of CFS patients than in healthy individuals. While no definitive causal relationship exists, infections likely contribute to the development of these conditions.
Various viruses, bacteria, parasites, and chronic yeast infections are believed to play a role. Some infections may benefit from specific treatments like antiviral or antibiotic drugs, while alternative remedies like vitamin C, zinc, probiotics, and herbal supplements may support the immune system’s response.
3. Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to CFS and fibromyalgia development
In ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia,’ the author delves into the potential role of nutritional and enzyme deficiencies in these conditions. The book highlights key nutrients like magnesium, L-carnitine, choline, B12, and multivitamins, which are believed to be essential in addressing symptoms associated with CFS and fibromyalgia.
The book also touches upon the significance of dietary changes, such as adopting a low-carbohydrate diet, which may help alleviate hypoglycemia and reduce fatigue.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Rich source of information: The book is a rich and helpful source of information for individuals suffering from CFS or fibromyalgia.
• Practical reference: The book’s information is valuable for reference purposes, making it a useful tool for individuals seeking to compare information from various sources.
• Realistic expectations: It offers sobering but realistic expectations of the difficulties involved in the healing process of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Weaknesses:
• While the book addresses both CFS/ME and fibromyalgia, it appears to prioritise CFS/ME, providing less extensive coverage of fibromyalgia-related topics.
Best quotes from ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’
“If you can imagine the worst fatigue you ever felt in the midst of the flu, and multiply by it by 100, this is the type of fatigue that some people feel every single day with CFS or fibromyalgia.”
“You can be as prepared and organized as possible, but if you’re dealing with a closed-minded or uninformed practitioner, you may be wasting precious time fighting against an insurmountable obstacle to diagnosis.”
“Don’t misunderstand the concept that beliefs, coping, and behavior are linked to your health. This is not suggesting in any way that CFS or fibromyalgia are psychosomatic, brought on by emotional problems, or a figment of your imagination. Because they are most definitely not. And you should not put up with any suggestion otherwise whether from health-care practitioner, family member, or friend. But it is a fact that your behavior and how you cope with your condition will have an impact on how you feel and your long-term efforts to feel and live well.”
Final takeaway
‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ by Mary J. Shomon serves as a valuable guide for individuals seeking to understand and manage these complex conditions. The book offers practical advice, eye-opening insights into the disorders and realistic expectations for the healing process.
Those seeking reliable information on diagnosis, treatment, and coping strategies for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and fibromyalgia should consider reading this book.
Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia afflict around 6 to 12 million Americans, creating a substantial impact on those affected by these conditions. Despite their prevalence, these disorders have posed a persistent mystery, leaving both patients and the medical community struggling to comprehend their intricacies.
In the quest for knowledge and relief, ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ by Mary J. Shomon emerges to bridge the knowledge gap surrounding these disorders.
Author’s background
In 1995, Mary J. Shomon received a diagnosis of thyroid disease, which became a catalyst for her to become a renowned patient advocate on a global scale.
Currently, Shomon serves as the thyroid and hormonal health patient expert for HealthCentral, where her articles reach millions of readers annually, catering to a global audience seeking reliable thyroid and hormonal health information. She also runs an email newsletter, Sticking Out Our Necks, which has amassed over 100,000 subscribers.
What is the book about?
‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ delves into the diagnosis and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia. The book rejects the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach, recognising the varied reasons and manifestations of CFS and fibromyalgia in each person. It also discusses how doctors diagnose these conditions in various ways, such as through tests or by understanding the person’s medical history and symptoms.
Mary Shomon, who has a personal experience with CFS, shares helpful insights and research to guide readers in managing these conditions. The book provides detailed guidance for diagnosis, explores different ideas about what causes CFS and fibromyalgia, and helps readers find suitable doctors and create personalised treatment plans. There is also a section with additional resources for further support and information.
Key takeaways from ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’
1. Finding the right doctor is crucial in overcoming CFS and fibromyalgia
‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ provides a detailed plan for finding the right practitioner or team of practitioners to effectively manage these conditions.
To find the best practitioners, it is crucial to consider specific qualities and features, such as gender preferences, cost and insurance coverage, experience, credentials, certification, and treatment focus (conventional or alternative).
Identifying candidates can involve seeking recommendations from friends, relatives, medical specialists, and health professionals. Conducting brief screening interviews via phone can further help to assess the compatibility of a practitioner with your needs. During these interviews, you can inquire about patient referrals, availability, appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and communication methods. Once a shortlist of potential practitioners is compiled, verifying their credentials through reliable sources is essential. It is crucial to gather as much information as possible about the doctors, their education, office policies, and payment procedures before making a decision.
2. Infection is one possible cause of CFS and fibromyalgia
Throughout the book, the author acknowledges that the cause of fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia is still unknown. However, Shomon raises a theory that there is a connection between CFS and fibromyalgia with infections caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi.
She cites studies that suggest a link, with chronic infections found in a significantly higher percentage of CFS patients than in healthy individuals. While no definitive causal relationship exists, infections likely contribute to the development of these conditions.
Various viruses, bacteria, parasites, and chronic yeast infections are believed to play a role. Some infections may benefit from specific treatments like antiviral or antibiotic drugs, while alternative remedies like vitamin C, zinc, probiotics, and herbal supplements may support the immune system’s response.
3. Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to CFS and fibromyalgia development
In ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia,’ the author delves into the potential role of nutritional and enzyme deficiencies in these conditions. The book highlights key nutrients like magnesium, L-carnitine, choline, B12, and multivitamins, which are believed to be essential in addressing symptoms associated with CFS and fibromyalgia.
The book also touches upon the significance of dietary changes, such as adopting a low-carbohydrate diet, which may help alleviate hypoglycemia and reduce fatigue.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Rich source of information: The book is a rich and helpful source of information for individuals suffering from CFS or fibromyalgia.
• Practical reference: The book’s information is valuable for reference purposes, making it a useful tool for individuals seeking to compare information from various sources.
• Realistic expectations: It offers sobering but realistic expectations of the difficulties involved in the healing process of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Weaknesses:
• While the book addresses both CFS/ME and fibromyalgia, it appears to prioritise CFS/ME, providing less extensive coverage of fibromyalgia-related topics.
Best quotes from ‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’
“If you can imagine the worst fatigue you ever felt in the midst of the flu, and multiply by it by 100, this is the type of fatigue that some people feel every single day with CFS or fibromyalgia.”
“You can be as prepared and organized as possible, but if you’re dealing with a closed-minded or uninformed practitioner, you may be wasting precious time fighting against an insurmountable obstacle to diagnosis.”
“Don’t misunderstand the concept that beliefs, coping, and behavior are linked to your health. This is not suggesting in any way that CFS or fibromyalgia are psychosomatic, brought on by emotional problems, or a figment of your imagination. Because they are most definitely not. And you should not put up with any suggestion otherwise whether from health-care practitioner, family member, or friend. But it is a fact that your behavior and how you cope with your condition will have an impact on how you feel and your long-term efforts to feel and live well.”
Final takeaway
‘Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia’ by Mary J. Shomon serves as a valuable guide for individuals seeking to understand and manage these complex conditions. The book offers practical advice, eye-opening insights into the disorders and realistic expectations for the healing process.
Those seeking reliable information on diagnosis, treatment, and coping strategies for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and fibromyalgia should consider reading this book.
February 23, 2026
For three years, I struggled with chronic fatigue syndrome, moving from one hospital to another in search of answers. During the same period, my dad was battling Parkinson’s disease, which was an incredibly frightening and challenging time for our family. While searching online for support and alternative options, I came across information about Earthcure herbal clinic through a lady's testimony saying that she got cured of COPD with a herbal treatment from "w w w .earthcureherbalclinic . c o m" and decided to explore it. After contacting them at (info @ earthcureherbalclinic. com) and we started their treatment program, my dad and I felt that we experienced some improvements in our overall well-being over the following weeks. Over time, we continued to monitor our health closely and for a few months we were confirmed cured with a series of tests from medical professionals. The journey taught us the importance of hope, persistence, and carefully considering all available options while working alongside qualified Holistic providers like Dr Madida Sam.
August 25, 2010
Just recently being diagnosed myself I was searching for information, treatment and just general understanding. This book did such a great job explaining it all and saving me the time. I could see it being a great tool for someone that is having trouble being diagnosed. It helped me figure out my plan for treating this chronic illness.
August 13, 2008
It's like this women is taking the words right out of my mouth.
May 31, 2010
had some helpful information, particularly for coping with chronic illness
June 12, 2012
Nice to read something and know all of this isn't just in my head. It exists and is real and I wish it wasn't!
January 18, 2015
Useful book, brings together a number of things I'd read online and some new info - would be very good starting point. Practitioner advice is totally American, not useful here at all.
May 26, 2024
A wonderful read on CFS & Fibromyalgia. I wish I could have read it earlier. Thank you for putting up efforts in various ways. You are changing lives for better :) Guys, go read it !
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews