Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Linked to The Brain's Clearing System

Interesting article linking ME/CFS to glymphatic dysfunction. Science alert is trying to imply that one causes the other, but the actual research merely shows that there's a link. That isn't too surprising to me, since most of us have terrible sleep quality, which impacts glymphatic function. The glympatic system clears waste from the brain and is primarily active during deep sleep.

The interesting thing is that the brain scans of ME/CFS patients show that the glymphatic dysfunction is only on the right side. The worse this right sided glymphatic dysfuction is, the worse the brain fog is that each patient experiences.

What does this mean for us? It means that prioritizing sleep quality is vital, by any means necessary.

It also explains the link between ME/CFS and migraines. Glymphatic dysfunction causes a build up of CGRP, which causes migraines. My migraines happen to be worse on the right side- are anyone else's?

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ETA some potential options since people have been asking. I hope summarizing things here helps those who dont have enetgy to sort through comments. Please note that I am not a doctor and its been a few years since I took pharmacology and neuroscience, so you should look into these things yourself and consult with a doctor before trying anything. Also my energy is running out, so please be tolerant of typos or mistakes.

I have read some research suggesting α2A-adrenergic agonists and α1-adrenergic agonists (tizanidine, clonidine, midodrine, etc) may improve slow wave sleep and glymphatic function.

Yes, gabapentin and lyrica improve slow wave sleep, but they come with serious risks, so consider trying GABA supplements first as a safer alternative.

Someone mentioned creatine and I agree with them that it could be a great option. There are studies suggesting that it could improve sleep quality and duration.

Histamine surges can give you a "tired but wired" feeling late at night, keeping you awaje and/or affecting sleep quality. Look into antihistamines (but avoid the ones that reduce slow wave sleep).

Multiple people mention sleep apnea in the comments. If you think you may have it, please talk to your doctor and get a sleep study!

Low dose melatonin was mentioned. Note that low dose melatonin is usually considered to be somewhere in the .25 to .5 mg range, much less than most otc supplements contain.