Struggles of Post-COVID and ME/CFS Patients Reveal Gaps in Swedish Healthcare

Maja Westerlund, a 21-year-old from Krylbo, has been bedridden for three years following severe post-COVID complications, including POTS and suspected ME/CFS. Once an active teenager, Maja suffers from debilitating symptoms such as extreme fatigue, headaches, and sensory sensitivities, unable to leave her bed or maintain basic self-care. Her family has faced significant challenges in obtaining proper medical care, including misdiagnoses and accusations of Munchausen syndrome by proxy against her mother. They eventually secured a POTS diagnosis privately and are seeking recognition for ME/CFS, which the regional healthcare system has yet to formally acknowledge. Recently, treatment from a Danish clinic has led to minor improvements, with Maja starting to stand briefly and regaining some motivation to engage in activities (103563).

ME/CFS remains controversial in Sweden, with many patients reporting feelings of mistrust and inadequate care. Specialist physician Per Julin notes a significant lack of understanding within the healthcare system, where some patients receive good support but others are dismissed or told ME is not a recognized condition (103562). This reflects ongoing systemic issues in acknowledging and managing chronic fatigue syndromes.

These personal stories illuminate the broader healthcare challenges faced by vulnerable patients, underscoring a pressing need for increased awareness, better diagnostics, and compassionate care pathways for ME/CFS and post-COVID conditions in Sweden.