Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome a Long-Term Disability?
A person suffering from chronic fatigue can seek benefits from their long-term disability insurance policy if their employer provides it. Many insurance companies are leery of providing benefits, however. Medical professionals do not entirely understand the syndrome, and there isn’t a list of specific criteria or tests for diagnosing it.
The good news is that you could still successfully recover benefits with a long-term disability claim in this situation. While it could be challenging, a dedicated personal injury lawyer from our firm could assist you.
Common factors in a chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosis
The science surrounding chronic fatigue syndrome is still developing. There are some key triggers that researchers have isolated– many of which are believed to play a role in the condition. These could include anything from genetic predisposition to a viral infection. Other research points to exposure to harmful chemicals or heavy metals.
Some researchers point to certain medical treatments as a cause and could include certain immunizations or blood transfusions. Going under anesthesia is also a possible trigger or cause.
Finally, physical trauma could come into play. It could result from anything– from a car accident to a medical error. A Preszler long term disability lawyer could review your case and consult with medical experts to identify the potential cause of your illness.
Symptoms of chronic fatigue
These symptoms can significantly impact your life and your ability to function—they include:
- Fatigue
- Sleep dysfunction
- Pain
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Sensory disturbance
- Mental impairment
- Nausea
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Flu-like symptoms
- Abnormal appetite
The challenges of recovering long term disability benefits for chronic fatigue
Because so little is known about chronic fatigue syndrome, insurance companies have been successful in denying these claims. Unlike other conditions, there is no single test to get a definitive diagnosis. To successfully recover on your claim, you must build the strongest case possible.
This would include well-documented medical records that demonstrate your struggle. These records should document the preventative measures you have taken and highlight how it has impacted your life.
Remember: it is not enough for a doctor to testify you have this condition. You must convince the insurance company that it is so severe it has rendered you unable to work. This involves evidence of your inability to function, often relative to your prior work history.
Another important step in the process is to show that you have ruled out other potential causes. There are many factors in fatigue, including sleep apnea or a thyroid condition. If you can conclusively show that these diseases or ailments are not the cause, you improve your odds of recovery.
Your medical records must reflect every aspect of your condition, including the loss of mental function, memory problems, or the inability to concentrate. With a carefully documented claim, you could be successful.
Contact us at Preszler Injury Lawyers today
If you find yourself struggling to stay awake and your doctors have ruled out other options, you could be living with chronic fatigue syndrome. With our help and advocacy, you could seek benefits under your long-term disability policy.
This process may not be easy. That said, we are committed to helping you obtain the monetary benefits you need to make ends meet. Call right away to set up a free consultation.
