As you gain momentum in your career, you may not consider what would happen if you became disabled. No matter your definition of “disability,” you likely do not think it will affect you. However, the fact remains that there is no way of telling what the future holds.
Regardless of how hard you try to live a healthy lifestyle and take precautions to remain safe, your body could succumb to any variety of conditions, thereby affecting your ability to earn a livable wage. If you suffer from widespread musculoskeletal pain and are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you may need long-term disability benefits to help you get by financially.
How fibromyalgia affects your body
Though there are no specific diagnostic tests a doctor can use to diagnose fibromyalgia, they may diagnose you based on your reports of prolonged symptoms common to the condition. In many cases, these may affect your work.
Along with sore muscles and joints, your symptoms may include:
- Fatigue, which could make it difficult for you to complete your job duties
- Depression or anxiety, making it hard to accept new tasks or be around people
- Stiffness, especially in the morning when you are trying to get ready for your workday
- Numbness or tingling in your feet, legs, hands and arms, which may limit your motor skills
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things, potentially limiting your ability to focus on the task at hand
The combination of these symptoms can affect your ability to complete your work functions safely. And the misunderstanding of the disorder may make you feel bad about yourself, further contributing to the anxiety and depression experienced with your condition.
You may be able to benefit from long-term disability insurance during your search for treatment
There is no cure for fibromyalgia. However, there are various treatment options you may discuss with your doctor as you search for remedies to reduce your symptoms.
In some cases, you may be able to find a treatment which will allow you to return to the job you love, so you can feel like you are productively contributing to your family once again.
