April Health Awareness: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Posted April 6, 2018 by Premier Disability Services, LLC®

April is National Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month!

If you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), you are not alone – IBS is actually quite common, with prevalence estimated at approximately 10% to 15%. Yet many people remain undiagnosed and unaware that their symptoms indicate a medically recognized disorder.

What is IBS?

IBS, a relative of ulcerative colitis, is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions of individuals, women more so than men. Characterized by alternating periods of diarrhea and constipation, the debilitating symptoms of IBS also include abdominal cramping and bloating, and sometimes a significant amount of anxiety and stress. Between 20% and 50% of all visits to the gastroenterologist involve IBS.

Individuals who are not able to control the symptoms of IBS usually have significant restrictions in their daily activities. Although IBS is a commonly diagnosed condition, it can nonetheless be a severe impairment.

IBS and SSA

IBS is not currently included in the Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments (medical conditions that listed are eligible for benefits if the applicant meets the criteria in the listings). However, if you can prove that your symptoms are painful, disruptive, and distracting enough to keep you from working a full-time job, you may be able to get benefits.

If you or someone you know is unable to work due to a medical condition, please contact us for a free evaluation of your claim!

By: Joyce Trudeau of Premier Disability Services, LLC®