Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, like many other “invisible illnesses”, can be an especially frustrating disability to establish when seeking to claim long-term disability benefits. Similar to conditions such as fibromyalgia or multiple chemical sensitivities, there is no specific diagnostic tool that can identify when a person is suffering from the condition. Rather, a physician will generally make a diagnosis based on medical history, symptoms and through ruling out other potential causes.

At MK Disability Lawyers, we have worked with many clients suffering from “invisible” conditions, and we understand how very real they are for those who are facing them. While a diagnosis can be a challenge, the symptoms themselves are very real and have a significant impact on a person’s ability to perform the functions of their job. We have seen numerous clients who have been denied a disability claim on the basis of insufficient medical evidence and we know how best to advise these clients on developing an appeal that is undeniable. In addition, we work to accommodate clients with respect to their individual symptoms whenever possible. For those suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, we understand that there may be good days and bad days, or even good times of the day. We will work to schedule meetings when a client is at their best and can even meet remotely if travel to the office becomes too challenging.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a disability characterized by extreme fatigue, with no apparent underlying cause. Mental and physical activity may compound the fatigue, but rest and sleep do not have the converse effect of reducing fatigue. Doctors are not able to identify a cause for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, however, it has been attributed to both viral infections and psychological stress. Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of memory or ability to concentrate
• Sore throat
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or armpit
• Unexplained muscle and joint pain
• Headaches
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Extreme exhaustion that lasts more than 24 hours after physical or mental exertion

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long-Term Disability Claims

The key to establishing a successful disability claim for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is to create a record of medical evidence pertaining to both the reporting of symptoms and also of any treatments that have been employed. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has no particular treatment for the condition, however, doctors do make attempts at treating individual symptoms. Many people affected by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome also suffer from depression, and so anti-depressants may have a positive impact by helping to encourage sleep and relieve physical pain. Further, counselling and physical therapy have shown improvement in some people by helping to develop coping strategies for daily symptoms as well as reducing the body’s intolerance for physical activity. Clients suffering from Chronic Fatigue are encouraged to follow their doctor’s recommended treatment plan whenever possible in order to bolster their disability claim.

Contact MK Disability Lawyers for Skilled Representation in Claims Relating to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

At MK Disability Lawyers, we do our best to take on the stress of dealing with our clients’ long-term disability disputes, so they don’t have to. Clients facing the debilitating symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may find that they are no longer able to work and earn an income. The challenge of receiving a diagnosis can be frustrating, which is compounded if a claim for long-term disability is denied. We advise clients on the best path forward to successfully appeal a claim denial while remaining sensitive to the physical and emotional challenges they are facing. If you have had a long-term disability claim denied or terminated, we can help. To arrange a complimentary consultation with one of our experienced disability lawyers, please complete the online form, or call us at 844-241-3832.