Have you heard about Dr Paul Hwang and his recent research into ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)? As someone who lives with severe ME, I try to stay as up-to-date as possible on any scientific developments—and his recent PNAS publication gave me a glimmer of hope.
I know opinions will vary, but I believe any doctor bringing attention to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is making a valuable contribution. After all, we never know who might read their work or where it might lead.
Living with ME: The Reality Doctors Need to See
I’ve lived with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis since 2012. Like so many others, this condition has completely changed my life. Outside of my GP and the occasional hospital admission, I haven’t seen an ME specialist in years.
This isn’t unusual. Many patients are diagnosed and then sent back to their GP to manage the illness alone. In some cases, the diagnosis itself comes directly from the GP, with no further support.
I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had ME specialists involved in my early diagnosis and to have a treatment plan that manages my symptoms, even though I’m far from pain-free. I rely on strong, regular medication, with the option to take additional meds when my pain becomes unbearable.
Managing ME at Home: Small Tools That Help
Beyond medication, I use various methods that help make my symptoms more bearable:
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TENS Machine – a quick and easy option for pain relief.
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Aromatherapy – especially Lemongrass and Lavender essential oils, which I use in a diffuser.
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Epsom Salt Baths – 20 minutes in warm water often helps my muscles relax.
While none of these are miracle cures, they form part of my self-care toolkit. I even use Lemongrass oil to combat nausea and ease inflammation. Lavender is widely known for its calming properties and may help with anxiety and sleep.
Top Tip: If you’re trying essential oils, always buy pure therapeutic-grade oils. Avoid diluted or poor-quality versions, and do your research—some oils shouldn’t be applied directly to the skin or used in certain ways.
What Dr Paul Hwang’s Research Means for Us
Dr Paul Hwang has been studying a protein called WASF3, which may interfere with how our bodies convert oxygen and glucose into energy. His interest in ME/CFS began while researching mitochondrial regulation linked to the TP53 gene mutation—initially about a rare cancer disorder (Li-Fraumeni Syndrome).
This accidental discovery led him to pivot towards ME/CFS research, and he is now exploring how mitochondrial dysfunction might contribute to our fatigue.
“In our lab, we are working on our finding the best that we can, realising that treatment is a priority.” – Dr Paul Hwang
Read the full article here:
👉 Ask the Expert: The ME/CFS Mystery – Medical News Bulletin
His sample size was small, but this is a positive first step. I genuinely hope more researchers join the effort. Who knows—perhaps one day this will even become part of the curriculum for medical students.
Why Is ME/CFS Still Ignored in Medical Training?
It baffles me that in 2023, doctors can qualify without ever learning about Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. How can so many of us be left without proper care and recognition?
We need change. And it has to happen soon.
Thank you for Supporting My Journey 💙
Before I go, I just want to say thank you for supporting my YouTube channel. Uploading videos daily is no small task when living with ME/CFS, especially with Christmas around the corner and home renovations still ongoing—but your comments and messages mean everything to me.
If you haven’t seen my latest video, where I talk about living with ME, you can watch it here:
🎥 Alisha Whittam – YouTube
Together, we’re building something special—a community where people with chronic illnesses feel seen, supported, and understood.
🫶 Thank you for being here 🫶
Love Always
Alisha ❤️
