Ep. 107 Neurasthenia: Uncovering Parallels with Today's Invisible Illnesses Part 3

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Are you familiar with Neurasthenia? We are taking a journey back in time, viewing the parallels between this illness from over a century ago and the invisible illnesses of today. You will be astounded at its striking resemblance with conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, POTS, migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome.  This diagnosis was common and accepted as a legitimate, respected illness. Renowned intellectuals like Charles Darwin, George Elliot, Rousseau, Montaigne, Francis Bacon, Kant, and Sigmund Freud suffered from it.

As we cast our gaze backward in time, we get a real sense of appreciation for the advances of modern medicine. However, let's not deceive ourselves. Even in this age, recognizing the same conditions as real conditions deserving of compassionate care with the modern names of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome remains an uphill battle. This episode promises to be a rich tapestry of medical history, empathy, and a deeper understanding of invisible illnesses, so don't miss it.

Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator.
If you have questions, advice,  or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question.  You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com  to learn more.

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*