Can You Get Long-Term Disability for Empty Sella Syndrome?

Empty Sella Syndrome (ESS) is a neurological condition that affects the pituitary gland. It occurs when the protective membrane over the pituitary gland collapses.

ESS can cause hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue, headaches, and vision problems. Some people experience mild or no symptoms, but others may develop significant impairments. If you’re unable to work due to ESS, you may qualify for long-term disability (LTD) benefits.

However, insurance companies often deny claims without a well-documented claim file. This article discusses the key factors that determine whether you could qualify for LTD benefits.

Key Factors in an ESS Disability Claim

Medical Evidence

Insurance companies require objective, detailed evidence to support your diagnosis and symptoms. Your medical records should include:

• Imaging studies (such as an MRI or CT scan) confirming the presence of an empty or partially empty sella.
• Hormone panels showing pituitary dysfunction.
• Clinical notes documenting your symptoms (e.g., chronic fatigue, dizziness, cognitive impairment, headaches).

A strong claim includes not just a diagnosis, but also proof of how your symptoms impair your ability to work.

Functional Impairments

Insurers want to see how your symptoms translate into real-world limitations. Examples might include:

• Difficulty maintaining focus or memory (cognitive impairment).
• Fatigue that prevents sustained activity.
• Balance or visual disturbances that interfere with daily functioning.

Your doctor should document these limitations in detail—ideally in a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form.

Job Requirements

The type of work you performed before becoming disabled plays a major role in your eligibility. For example:

• A manager who can no longer multitask or handle high-stress decisions.
• A technician whose vision issues make precision work unsafe.

If your symptoms prevent you from fulfilling essential duties of your occupation, you may qualify for benefits.

Policy Language and Limitations

Every disability policy is different. Review yours carefully to check for:

• Pre-existing condition exclusions.
• Limitations on benefits for neurological or subjective symptoms.
• Definitions of disability (“own occupation” vs. “any occupation”).

A disability attorney can help identify any pitfalls in your policy language that may affect your claim.

Tips to Strengthen Your Claim

Building a successful long-term disability claim for Empty Sella Syndrome takes more than just a diagnosis. You need to provide compelling evidence and show exactly how your condition limits your ability to work.

Here are some key steps you can take to strengthen your claim:

• Work with a doctor who understands ESS and supports your claim.
• Keep a symptom diary documenting how your condition affects you day to day.
• Seek out neuropsychological or occupational evaluations to support cognitive or functional limitations.
• Appeal denials with detailed evidence and, if necessary, legal help.

Taking a proactive approach can make a significant difference. Remember, the insurance company won’t go out of its way to help you prove your disability—you need to build a clear and persuasive case from the start.

We Help with Long-Term Disability Denials

Empty Sella Syndrome is often misunderstood, and insurance companies may overlook the impact it can have. If you’ve been denied benefits and need help preparing your appeal, you don’t have to face the appeals process alone.

A disability attorney can provide the support and strategy needed to move your claim forward. Our experienced disability law firm can help you gather the right evidence and fight for the benefits you deserve. Call the Ortiz Law Firm at 888-321-8131 or complete our free case evaluation form to get started.