Further to Tim Heatly's letter (December 28) about the effects of ME on intellectual performance, the illness often affects brain functioning, leading to mental confusion and making communication difficult at times.

These symptoms, as with the others, tend to vary and fluctuate depending on physical and mental activity. Many patients manage their illness by sensibly pacing themselves, which can lead to improvements allowing some to lead near normal lives.

Our organisation, which was founded in the Eighties to help ME sufferers, now has new booklets available, which can help patients pace themselves.

We can be contacted on 01273 674828 or readers can visit www.measussex.org.uk.

-Joe Marsh, development officer, Sussex ME/CFS Society, Sussex Square, Brighton