Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/myalgic-encephalomyelitis-chronic-fatigue-syndrome

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
2. What is the prevalence?Affects 2-9 per 1,000 people, with increased incidence post-COVID-19 infection
3. What is ME/CFS?ME/CFS is a chronic illness that makes people feel very tired all the time, even after sleeping. It can also make thinking and doing everyday tasks harder.
4. Why do people with ME/CFS feel even more tired after doing something?This is called post‑exertional malaise. Even small activities can make symptoms get worse hours or days later.

Post-exertional malaise (PEM): A hallmark symptom characterized by a significant exacerbation of symptoms following minimal physical or cognitive exertion.
Neuroimmune dysregulation: Imbalances or abnormal functioning within the nervous and immune systems.
Mitochondrial dysfunction: Problems with the parts of cells responsible for producing energy.