PEM and PER

Post Exertional Malaise (PEM) is a hallmark symptom of M.E. and unfortunately it kicked in today. What it basically means is I overdid it yesterday and have been living with the outcomes today. I didn't sleep very well last night and had a number of neurological symptoms this morning with milder ones throughout the day.

The way I have learnt to deal with PEM is to have Pre Emptive Rest (PER) and Post Exertional Rest (PER). Unfortunately I didn't have any Pre Emptive Rest the day before yesterday and so today I just had to have lots of Post Exertional Rest. I stayed inside all day and needed to lay down in bed a few times.

My Granddaughter took and edited this photo. I'm very proud of her!

On a positive note, I've noticed my pain levels have dropped dramatically since being here. Waking up in the night with pain is the exception rather than the rule. I think it must have something to do with the warmer weather, although I was still waking with pain in Summer back home. Perhaps it is also the barometric pressure or humidity?

Whatever the reason, it is a welcome relief.