Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an earned benefit that helps to protect professionals from financial hardship. When those with a lengthy work history develop medical challenges that prevent them from working, they may be able to apply for SSDI benefits.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) may award benefits to those who have conditions so severe that they cannot work at all. Some types of medical conditions are debilitating but still difficult to prove during an SSDI benefits claim. Those with fibromyalgia may have a lengthy claims process ahead.
Diagnosing fibromyalgia is complex
Many serious medical conditions allow for an affirmative diagnosis. Doctors can use imaging tests to validate the presence of a traumatic injury or a tumor. Chemical tests could also help affirm that a patient has a specific medical condition.
Fibromyalgia is different. It is a diagnosis of exclusion. Doctors determine that an individual has fibromyalgia when they have chronic pain and fatigue symptoms that doctors cannot connect to any other major medical issue, such as lupus.
Typically, patients must undergo a battery of tests to rule out other potential sources of their symptoms. Even after a diagnosis, outside parties may question the validity of their condition.
Those with fibromyalgia may need support as they apply for SSDI benefits. They may need to undergo specialized testing to show how their symptoms affect their daily life and prevent them from maintaining consistent, gainful employment.
Having legal support when seeking SSDI benefits for fibromyalgia can reduce the stress that people with this chronic medical condition experience. Support throughout the application and appeals process can help people focus on their health and families instead of bureaucratic red tape.