Disability for Crohn’s Disease and Other Digestive Disorders

Among the most debilitating cases that come to us are those involving Crohn’s disease, colitis, or inflammatory bowel syndrome. About a million Americans are affected with these and other digestive disorders. Severe digestive disorders can also result from a myriad of other diseases and even the side effects of certain medications. Prominent symptoms include abdominal pain and cramps, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and nausea. Crohn’s can also affect other organ systems and cause additional symptoms such as malnutrition, weight loss, fever, fatigue, anemia, neurological symptoms, inflammatory arthritis, skin rashes, oral ulcers, and vision problems.

Crohn’s disease primarily strikes the young, but it can occur at any age. Although many people with this condition are able to lead happy productive lives, some can only function within severe limitations. When prescriptions and dietary changes stop working, there simply is no cure for Crohn’s. Less severe digestive disorders also have varying degrees of management and cure.

When we gather evidence to prove such a case, we work to gather detailed information from medical providers. Some cases are difficult to prove empirically, so we must show exactly how this condition prevents the patient from working full-time. Experience has shown us that people are rather reluctant to discuss symptoms like incontinence and loss of bowel control. Any psychological aspect of the disorder should also be developed into viable medical evidence through testing and treatment. The emotional impact of such diseases should not be ignored.

Remember, a few good days now and then is not the same as being consistently “available” for full-time work – one must be able to work predictably, on a sustained basis, for 40 hours a week, otherwise, disability benefits should be granted.

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!

Written by: Joyce Trudeau of Premier Disability Services, LLC®