For more than 30 years, U.S. veterans of the first Gulf War have reported persistent, unexplained symptoms of fatigue, cognitive problems, vertigo, and chronic pain, without a clear medical cause. Early theories fell short of solving the mystery, but thanks to newer imaging technologies, researchers are finally getting a sharper view of what happened. They have discovered elevated creatine levels, suggesting the brain is working to compensate for impaired mitochondrial function. It all points to the brain’s energy system, opening the door to possible treatments after years of uncertainty.

We are joined this week by Dr. Robert Haley to talk about the mechanisms behind Gulf War illness.