Houston Social Security
Disability Attorney

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Photo of David Dopkin

Illnesses that are difficult to diagnose can still be disabling

On Behalf of | Feb 7, 2017 | Social Security Disability Benefits for Illness

The medical field has seen incredible advancements and discoveries in recent years. However, many conditions continue to stump medical professionals and elude diagnostic efforts.

One such condition is chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS. This condition is, as the name suggests, marked by severe and long-lasting fatigue. As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are many complications associated with CFS that make it very difficult to diagnose. 

The difficulties associated with diagnosing CFS, as described by the CDC, include:

  • Symptoms that are common to many other illnesses
  • The absence of markers that can be identified or tested
  • Varying degrees of severity
  • Symptoms that vary from person to person
  • No obvious signs of illness

Because of all these challenges, people with CFS often suffer for a long time without a proper diagnosis. They typically need to undergo several tests to rule out other conditions before doctors might feel comfortable diagnosing them with CFS. This diagnosis may never come, or a person might wind up misdiagnosed.

With all this in mind, it should not be a surprise that it can be very difficult to secure disability benefits for conditions like CFS. There may not be any test results, X-rays, scans or conclusive evidence to present with an application, but this does not mean it is impossible. 

If you suffer from CFS, or any other illness involving chronic fatigue and pain, you can work with an attorney who is familiar with the Social Security disability application process to pursue benefits. With this support, you can gather pertinent medical documentation and evidence to make your case. Without legal guidance, you may not know what information to present with your application or appeal, which could lead to denial of benefits.

Just because an illness is not well understood or easy to diagnose does not mean it should be ignored. These illnesses can be just as painful and disabling as other conditions, and getting the benefits you need and deserve will be crucial.