Abstract
Sleep abnormalities, neurocognitive disturbances and comorbid depressive symptoms are some of the particularly debilitating symptoms experienced by patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This complex condition with currently evasive etiology involves a multisystemic symptom presentation that can reflect dysfunction in several organs and biological systems. The microbiota‐gut‐brain axis provides one possible pathway where dysfunction in communication between enteric microbiota, the gastro‐intestinal system, and the brain may precipitate some ME/CFS symptoms. Sleep, neurocognitive and depressive symptoms are examined with recent microbiome research highlighting the potential etiological role of dysfunction in gut‐brain communication. Treatment alternatives are reviewed with a focus on addressing underlying pathophysiology and possible causal mechanisms. The burgeoning field of microbiota research across diverse health fields provides an avenue of hope for future therapeutic advances and improved health outcomes for patients with ME/CFS.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | The Handbook of Stress and Health |
Editors | Cary L. Cooper, James Campbell Quick |
Place of Publication | West Sussex, UK |
Publisher | Wiley-Blackwell |
Chapter | 31 |
Pages | 501-522 |
Number of pages | 22 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781118993811 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781118993774 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2017 |
Externally published | Yes |