Lawyers for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome Disability Claim Denials

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome (MCS), which is also sometimes referred to as Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (IEI), or more colloquially as Sick Building Syndrome or Environmental Illness, is a controversial diagnosis with many doctors at odds over its cause.  While most people suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome report their symptoms following long-term exposure to different chemicals (often scented chemicals, like cleaning solutions, chlorine, perfume, smoke, etc.) there is no definitive agreement as to what causes this syndrome.  Some doctors believe that Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome results from long-term exposure to chemicals resulting in an immune response similar to an allergic response, while others believe it is more psychologically in nature and routed in depression and anxiety. The issue of causation is currently the focus of many studies around the world. 

Symptoms of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome

There are numerous symptoms attributed to Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, including:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Congestion and Sore Throat
  • Irregular Heartbeat
  • Muscle Aches and Pains
  • Cognitive Impairment
  • Breathing Difficulty
  • Fatigue
  • Depression

Insurance companies are quick to deny long-term disability claims arising from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome due to the controversy regarding causation in the medical field.  Regardless as to the cause of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, if the symptoms you suffer from render you unable to work and your doctor has documented these symptoms then you should be entitled to long-term disability benefits.  You and your doctor will have to show the insurance company that the restrictions on your ability to work or complete your activities of daily living are greatly diminished due to the restrictions imposed by your symptoms from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome.  Often this requires significant medical evidence to show the limits of a person’s functional capacity.

If you have a Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome long-term disability claim that has been denied contact the lawyers at Taylor & Blair LLP today.