Our Harrisburg Social Security Disability Lawyer Offers Tips On Getting Benefits For Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a devastating chronic health condition that causes pain, fatigue, digestive issues, and a host of other troubling problems. Symptoms can come on suddenly, and it can be difficult to diagnose. While not life-threatening, fibromyalgia can result in long-term disabilities.
While Social Security disability benefits can help cover lost income if you are unable to work, claims involving fibromyalgia are often downplayed and denied. Our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer explains actions you can take to help in getting the benefits you are entitled to and deserve.
Fibromyalgia: A Common Cause of Long-Term Disabilities In Harrisburg
Feeling tired and suffering occasional aches and pains is common and more likely to happen the older we get. However, for people with fibromyalgia, these and other symptoms are severe, unrelenting, and can quickly escalate to the point of causing long-term disabilities.
According to Penn Medicine, fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition of unknown causes, but researchers suspect it occurs due to problems with how the central nervous system processes pain. Past trauma, infections, and lack of sleep can all trigger symptoms, which include:
- Widespread pain impacting multiple areas of the body;
- Problems sleeping and excessive fatigue;
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), or other digestive disorders;
- Weakness, numbing, and tingling in the hands, feet, and other body parts;
- Memory and concentration issues;
- Frequent tension or migraine headaches.
Fibromyalgia frequently impacts people between the ages of 20 and 50, and is most commonly found among women. It is also a common cause of long-term disabilities in Harrisburg. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but medications, physical therapy, and other treatments can help in managing symptoms.
Social Security Disability Benefits In Harrisburg For Fibromyalgia
Social Security disability benefits help to make up for lost income when you suffer injuries or illnesses that prevent you from working for a year or longer. In order to qualify, you must have earned the required work credits and suffer a qualifying medical condition.
Fibromyalgia qualifies as a potential disability for Social Security disability benefits. However, symptoms often mimic other conditions, and it can take years of doctor visits and tests to get an official diagnosis. To protect your rights in claim, our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer recommends taking the following steps:
- Visit medical providers regularly and report all of your symptoms;
- Keep records regarding doctor visits, test results, and medications you are taking;
- Keep a journal documenting your symptoms and how they impact your life;
- If, despite evidence, your doctor refuses to diagnose you with fibromyalgia or confirm your disabled status, get a second opinion.
Schedule A Consultation With Our Harrisburg Social Security Disability Lawyer
While you may be entitled to Social Security disability in Harrisburg for fibromyalgia, these claims are frequently downplayed and denied. For help in getting the benefits you need and deserve, contact the office of Ira H. Weinstock, P.C. We offer caring support and the professional legal guidance you need throughout the claims process. Schedule a consultation today with our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer.
Source:
pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/fibromyalgia#:~:text=Fibromyalgia%20is%20a%20condition%20in,headaches%2C%20depression%2C%20and%20anxiety.