Long-Term Disability for New Daily Persistent Headache Disorder

New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is a rare and debilitating neurological disorder that can severely impact a person’s ability to work. Unlike other headache disorders that come and go, NDPH begins suddenly and becomes relentless—often without a clear cause.

Because it’s a misunderstood condition and difficult to diagnose, patients often face an uphill battle when filing long-term disability (LTD) insurance claims. At the Ortiz Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges of proving that NDPH is disabling. If your LTD claim has been denied or terminated, we can help you file an appeal.

What Is New Daily Persistent Headache?

NDPH is characterized by the sudden onset of headaches that do not go away, last for more than three months, and do not respond to common treatments. The exact cause is unknown, although it may sometimes follow a viral or bacterial infection, stressful life event, or minor head trauma, including:

• Epstein-Barr virus
• COVID-19
• Meningitis or encephalitis
• Concussion or traumatic brain injury

Symptoms of NDPH That May Interfere with Work

What distinguishes NDPH apart from other chronic headaches is its abrupt onset and persistent nature. The pain and associated symptoms of NDPH can significantly interfere with a person’s ability to work, especially in a physically demanding environment or one that requires a high level of concentration.

Common symptoms include:

• Constant, unremitting headache pain (may feel like a tension- or migraine-like headache)
• Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
• Phonophobia (sensitivity to sound)
• Nausea
• Cognitive fog or difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue or sleep disturbances
• Depression or anxiety due to chronic pain

NDPH doesn’t follow the same cyclical patterns as migraines or tension headaches. There are no pain-free periods—just constant discomfort that can make sustained attention, decision-making, and social interaction extremely difficult.

Medical Evidence Needed for a Long-Term Disability Claim Based on NDPH

Because there is no definitive test for NDPH, the diagnosis is typically one of exclusion, which can make it difficult to prove to a disability insurance company. Strong medical evidence is essential. This may include:

• Records from a Neurologist: A diagnosis from a specialist carries more weight than one from a general practitioner.
• Imaging Tests (MRI, CT scans): These tests help rule out other causes of chronic headaches.
• Headache Diaries or Symptom Logs: Logs documenting the onset of headaches and the frequency, duration, and severity of associated symptoms.
• Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs): FCEs assess your physical and cognitive limitations.
• Statements from Treating Providers: A narrative letter outlining your diagnosis, treatment history, and how your symptoms limit your ability to work.

Insurance companies may also want to see how your condition has responded to various treatments—such as nerve blocks, antidepressants, or anti-seizure medications.

Challenges in Getting Long-Term Disability for NDPH

There are several hurdles that people with NDPH face when seeking long-term disability benefits:

• Lack of Objective Evidence: Insurers often demand “objective evidence,” but NDPH is a diagnosis of exclusion. Normal imaging or lab results can lead to skepticism.
• Misunderstanding of the Condition: Many insurance adjusters are unfamiliar with NDPH and may mistake it for a common tension or stress headache.
• Subjective Symptoms: Pain, fatigue, and brain fog are inherently subjective, which insurers may downplay without strong supporting documentation.
• Mental Health Comorbidities: Depression or anxiety associated with chronic pain may be used by insurers to label the condition as a mental health issue, which could limit benefits to 24 months under certain mental health policy limits.
• Surveillance and Social Media Scrutiny: Claimants are sometimes watched or monitored in an attempt to discredit their claims, especially if they’re seen engaging in activities that seem inconsistent with their reports of pain.

How an Experienced Long-Term Disability Attorney Can Help

If your LTD claim for NDPH has been denied or unfairly terminated, an experienced long-term disability attorney can be a game-changer. Attorney Nick Ortiz and the team at the Ortiz Law Firm focus exclusively on disability and ERISA claims.

We can help by:

• Reviewing your denial letter to identify weaknesses or reasons given by the insurance company.
• Gathering and submitting additional medical evidence to strengthen your claim.
• Coordinating with your physicians to obtain strong, detailed explanations of your work-related restrictions.
• Preparing appeal documents that respond directly to the insurer’s reasons for denial.
• Representing you in litigation if necessary.

You don’t need to live in Florida to work with the Ortiz Law Firm. We represent clients nationwide in ERISA long-term disability appeals and lawsuits.

Don’t Fight the Insurance Company Alone

Living with a constant headache is hard enough. Navigating a complex disability claim on top of that can feel overwhelming—especially when your claim is denied despite clear limitations. If you’re dealing with a long-term disability insurance denial related to NDPH, we encourage you to contact us for a free case evaluation. Call (888) 321-8131 to get started. We’ll review your claim and help you understand your options.