Dr. Kaplan Appointed to the National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee

Dr. Kaplan has been appointed by U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Kathleen Sebelius, to the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee (CFSAC). The Committee provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of HHS through the Assistant Secretary for Health on issues related to myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), such as access and quality of care for persons with CFS, the science and definition of CFS, and broader public health, clinical, research and educational issues related to CFS.

Dr. Kaplan is one of four individuals on the 11-person Committee who brings special expertise in healthcare delivery, insurance, and the problems experienced by individuals with CFS.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) (sometimes referred to as “Myalgic Encephalomyelitis” or “ME”) is a debilitating disease characterized by fatigue that interferes with your ability to actively engage in many of life’s activities. It can undermine your capacity to be productive at work, to maintain positive relationships with your family and friends, and to enjoy other recreational activities.

In addition to a chronic feeling of fatigue, its major symptoms include:

• Joint pain
• Sleep problems
• Headaches
• Persistent muscle pain
• Tender lymph nodes
• Cognitive difficulties – difficulty with memory and concentration
• A sore throat
• Increased levels of fatigue and discomfort following exertion

Other symptoms that sometimes are associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include:

• Gastrointestinal problems
• Psychological issues
• Sensitivity to lights and sounds
• Visual difficulties
• Chills
• Dizziness

More About Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

To learn more about how The Kaplan Center physicians diagnose and care for patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, please click here. Dr. Kaplan has written and lectured extensively on the topic of Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS), a complex neuro-physiological reaction that can cause chronic fatigue and chronic pain. To watch Dr. Kaplan’s CSS video series, please click here.