Adrenal Insufficiency and Long-Term Disability Claims

Adrenal insufficiency can lead to extreme fatigue, cognitive issues, and even life-threatening crises, all of which may prevent someone from maintaining steady employment. Although long-term disability (LTD) insurance is meant to provide financial support when work is no longer possible, proving a claim based on adrenal insufficiency can be complicated. This guide explores how the condition affects your ability to work, the type of medical evidence needed, potential challenges in the claims process, and how a disability attorney can help if your benefits are denied.

What Is Adrenal Insufficiency?

Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. This hormonal imbalance can stem from a primary issue with the adrenal glands (Addison’s disease) or from a problem with the pituitary gland (secondary adrenal insufficiency). It may result from long-term steroid use that suppresses adrenal function.

Common symptoms include:

• Chronic fatigue and muscle weakness
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Low blood pressure and dizziness upon standing
• Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
• Salt cravings and dehydration

In severe cases, an adrenal crisis can occur. This is a medical emergency characterized by extreme weakness, low blood pressure, and potential shock.

Functional Limitations from Adrenal Insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency often leads to unpredictable and debilitating fatigue. This makes it difficult for individuals to maintain a consistent work schedule. Some may need frequent breaks, require time off due to adrenal crises, or find themselves too fatigued to complete basic tasks.

For example:

• An office worker may struggle with cognitive focus, mood regulation, and energy levels, leading to errors or an inability to complete tasks.
• A construction worker may face physical weakness and dizziness, putting them at risk for on-the-job injuries.
• A teacher may experience frequent absences and difficulty managing classroom stress.

These limitations can significantly impair performance in both physically demanding and sedentary roles.

Medical Evidence to Support an LTD Claim

Strong medical documentation is essential to validate an LTD claim for adrenal insufficiency. Useful evidence includes:

• Blood tests showing low cortisol levels, ACTH stimulation test results, and electrolyte imbalances
• Imaging tests if pituitary or adrenal gland abnormalities are suspected
• Detailed physician notes documenting symptoms, frequency of adrenal crises, and treatment responses
• Records of hospitalizations or emergency room visits
• A statement from a treating endocrinologist about how symptoms impact the claimant’s ability to function at work

Consistent medical treatment and documentation of adherence to prescribed therapies are also important.

Challenges in Long-Term Disability Claims for Adrenal Insufficiency

Despite the seriousness of the condition, adrenal insufficiency claims may be denied due to:

• Lack of “objective” evidence showing functional impairment
• Misunderstanding or underestimation of the condition by insurance reviewers
• Gaps in treatment or inconsistent medical records
• Surveillance or independent medical exams (IMEs) that don’t capture fluctuating symptoms

Additionally, because adrenal insufficiency is a relatively rare and invisible illness, claimants may be unfairly judged as “exaggerating” symptoms.

Hypothetical Case Example

Consider “Emily,” a 42-year-old sales manager diagnosed with secondary adrenal insufficiency following pituitary surgery. Despite medication, she experiences severe fatigue, brain fog, and occasional adrenal crises. She tries to continue working but misses frequent days and struggles with productivity. When she applies for LTD benefits, her insurer denies the claim, citing “insufficient objective evidence” and a normal physical exam during an IME. With the support of her doctor and additional documentation of her daily limitations, Emily successfully appeals the denial.

How Legal Support Can Help

If your LTD claim for adrenal insufficiency has been denied or terminated, a long-term disability attorney can help you understand your rights and gather the necessary medical and vocational evidence. An experienced attorney can:

• Identify weaknesses in your claim file
• Coordinate supportive statements from your doctors
• Challenge unfair IME or surveillance reports
• Represent you in administrative appeals or federal court, if necessary

The Ortiz Law Firm represents clients nationwide and has a strong track record of success in long-term disability appeals and litigation.

Get Help with Your Disability Claim

Adrenal insufficiency can dramatically affect your ability to work, but proving this to an insurance company can be difficult. If your long-term disability claim has been denied or delayed, contact the Ortiz Law Firm for help. We offer personalized attention, national representation, and a proven track record of success. Call us at (888) 321-8131 to discuss your case today.