Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (“CFS”) is a condition characterized by extreme fatigue following even the slightest physical, cognitive, or emotional exertion. Other additional symptoms include:
- Cognitive dysfunction or “brain fog”
- Post-exertional malaise (“PEM”)
- Sleep abnormalities
- Immune impairment
- Infections
- Orthostatic intolerance such as lightheadedness, dizziness, or weakness when standing
To date, there is no test that can diagnose CFS.
Here’s what you should know about obtaining long-term disability benefits for CFS:
CFS Long-Term Disability Claims are Often Initially Denied or Limited
Long-term disability insurance companies typically deny claims right off the bat for CFS. Often, they deny the claim because they claim the condition is “subjective” since there is no diagnostic test for CFS. Insurance companies then rely on the lack of objective testing to support a denial.
Other times, insurance companies may approve the claim but will apply a policy limitation that limits how long you can get benefits. One such example is the mental health limitation.
Most policies have a limitation to 24 months of benefits for disabilities related to mental health. Even though CFS is not a mental health condition, insurance companies will still try to apply this limitation.
There Are Objective Ways to Verify CFS
Although there is no test to diagnose CFS, there are tests that can be done to objectively measure the symptoms. These tests include:
- a neuropsychological evaluation – a test that can objectively document the cognitive impairment from CFS.
- a cardiopulmonary exercise test (“CPET”) - a physical test where physiological changes are measured.
A CPET is particularly helpful because the results cannot be faked or exaggerated. It objectively measures a person’s physical impairment from CFS.
We have developed a solid strategy for CFS cases using these tests along with independent examinations and medical reviews by CFS experts. Using our strategy, we have successfully obtained disability benefits for our CFS clients.
Our Lawyers Specialize in Disability Insurance Claims
Because our law firm has always focused only on disability insurance, our lawyers are experts in legal representation for disability insurance benefits.
That means our disability lawyers have:
- Won several major disability lawsuits that help make better law for disability claimants;
- Experience fighting every major insurance company, such as UNUM, Hartford, MetLife, CIGNA, Prudential, and more.
- Successfully represented hundreds of clients and won millions of dollars in disability benefits.
Because federal law applies to most disability insurance claims, we can help clients across the country.
Disability insurance companies have lawyers. You should too. Call Dabdoub Law Firm to get experienced disability lawyers on your side.
We can help with:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim;
- Appealing a long-term disability denial;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company.
Call (800) 969-0488 for a free consultation with a disability attorney. No fees or costs until you get paid.
