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What is chronic fatigue syndrome?

On Behalf of | Jul 5, 2022 | Social Security Disability

If you are a fan of 1980s sitcoms, you may remember a Golden Girls episode that involved chronic fatigue syndrome. The show’s plot involves one of the women’s efforts to identify why she is not feeling well. Eventually, she ends up with a chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosis.

Despite being a plotline in a sitcom, CFS is no laughing matter. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 836,000 and 2.5 million Americans suffer from the condition. Luckily, if you are one of them, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.

What is CFS?

CFS, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, is a long-term and chronic medical condition that can be quite interruptive to both your job duties and personal activities. If you have CFS, you also may experience cold- or flu-like symptoms, which worsen with physical or mental exertion. Unfortunately, sleep and quality rest are not likely to improve your CFS.

How can you qualify for SSDI benefits?

Provided you have the requisite number of work credits, your CFS diagnosis may qualify you for SSDI benefits. Still, because of the nebulous nature of CFS, it is important to submit comprehensive evidence about your condition and work impairment. This evidence may include one or more of the following:

  • Proof of your official CFS diagnosis
  • Evidence of the severity of your condition
  • Documentation that shows the psychological and physical effects of your CFS
  • Any other relevant medical evidence

Most first-time applicants for SSDI benefits receive benefits denials. Ultimately, though, by gathering as much evidence about your CFS as possible, you are likely to be in a good position to appeal any denial you might receive.

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