Can My Irritable Bowel Syndrome be Disabling?

Posted April 22, 2016 by Premier Disability Services, LLC® The month of April is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) awareness month. IBS is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Common symptoms associated with IBS include cramping, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. The purpose of IBS Awareness Month is to bring attention to important messages regarding the diagnosis of IBS, available treatments, and quality of life issues.

While IBS is quite common, the severity of the condition can vary. In some cases, it can be so severe that it prevents performance of competitive employment. For example, a person that is required to take frequent bathroom breaks all of which are for prolonged periods may not be employable. Most jobs have production standards or require an employee to be in a certain place or position for a period of time. A person suffering from severe IBS requiring frequent bathroom breaks may be unable to meet the persistence and pace for full-time, sustained employment. Further, a person who suffers from painful stomach cramps and/or constipation would likely miss multiple days of work per month, which would also render them unemployable.

If you or someone you know suffers from severe IBS that prevents performance of gainful work, please contact us. It may be worth considering an application for Social Security Disability benefits and we can provide a free evaluation of your claim to make your decision easier.

By: Thomas A. Klint of Premier Disability Services, LLC^®