Many Americans struggle to return to work after experiencing long-term symptoms from various viral and bacterial infections, including influenza, viral pneumonia, hepatitis and other respiratory viruses.
While some people are able to recover from illnesses rather easily and return to a somewhat normal way of life, others experience more severe symptoms that linger for a significant period of time afterward. Long-term effects of viruses can influence a person’s ability to work. In some cases, these people may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits.
What are long-term symptoms?
Long-term symptoms of viruses can make it difficult for people to work in certain industries. Depending on the job requirements, some may be unable to return to work at all. According to Medline Plus, some chronic symptoms include the following:
- Migraine headaches
- Shortness of breath or asthma
- Sinus and lung infections
- Recurrent fevers
- Joint inflammation
- Chronic fatigue
Some symptoms can mimic other conditions that are eligible for SSDI benefits, such as chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.
Do they meet the requirements for SSDI?
In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, you must meet certain requirements. SSDI benefits are designed to benefit those who suffer from a physical or mental condition that inhibits their ability to work. This includes not being able to engage in tasks due to the condition, and your condition has lasted or will last at least one year.
Since many people have not yet had their symptoms for this long, they may not qualify. If you have long-term symptoms, it is best to go to a doctor for medical care and have it documented as soon as possible.
