Reading a book about a medical problem is akin to taking an intellectual journey with the author. The ideas and descriptions may initially feel similar to driving through unfamiliar terrain, perhaps passing over some untraveled, bumpy, cobblestone roads. But after learning more about the subject, the reader starts experiencing some Aha! moments, gaining new views and insights, similar to the way a driver might notice an intriguing café or a park that warrants further exploration. Hopefully, the author navigates you steadily through any rough spots and onto a clear path of understanding and empathy for the inhabitants of this little town—in this case, people who are burdened with CFS and who need and want help. The reader could also be a physician who wants to help their patients with this problem. This book could be the help that they have been denied for far too long.
In this book, I have discussed the key symptoms of CFS and explained how CFS is similar to and different from other diagnoses. This vital process is called the differential diagnosis, and it is a key fact-finding mission to help determine whether a person has CFS or another medical condition.
I have also discussed my own research study using a stimulant medication to successfully improve the lives of subjects who were diagnosed with CFS. I followed that discussion with a chapter on stimulant medications that may help patients with CFS, including both the pros and cons of amphetamines, methylphenidate, and wakefulness medications such as modafinil. My last four chapters focused on the key problems experienced by virtually every person with CFS and offered practical advice to resolve these issues. Such problems include fatigue, chronic pain, brain fog, and sleep problems.
As we wind this book down to its conclusion, I hope my readers will feel that they have gained the knowledge they need to navigate CFS and arrive at the much-needed solutions. I also hope they feel that they now understand this distressing medical problem and are armed and ready with the information they need. In effect, I hope readers feel that they have truly reached their destination.