Autoimmune Disorders and Long-Term Disability Benefits in Canada

An intricate network of cells, proteins and organs that defend our bodies against various forms of infection, the immune system is vital to maintaining health. Unfortunately, diseases and genetic factors can affect the body’s natural defense system, leading it to mistakenly attack healthy cells. These forms of conditions are commonly referred to as autoimmune disorders.

There are many different types of autoimmune disorders affecting different parts of the body. Some autoimmune disorders are inherited, while others may be brought on through external factors such as one’s environment, behaviours, and/or medications.

As with many other forms of personal injuries, autoimmune diseases can have profound effects on a person’s day to day life. In some cases, individuals may be unable to work as a result of their condition, either temporarily or for a very long time.

If you are unable to earn an income as a result of an autoimmune disorder, you may be eligible for long-term disability benefits. Typically provided through insurance companies, these benefits may supplement you with up to 70% of your regular income while you take time to focus on your health.

It can be challenging to navigate a long-term disability claim, particularly while also seeking stability with an autoimmune condition. In some cases, insurance companies may deny eligible claimants due to errors or incomplete information. If you believe you have been wrongfully denied long-term disability, you may be eligible for an appeal.

At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we provide sensitive, compassionate, time-sensitive care to clients seeking long-term disability. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation, and learn how our Ontario long-term disability lawyers may be of service to you.

What Is the Immune System?

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells and proteins that collaborate to prevent and destroy potentially dangerous pathogens that enter the body.

Particular kinds of white blood cells known as B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes keep a record of all the pathogens they have defeated. When a B lymphocyte encounters a pathogen it’s already seen, it produces special proteins called antibodies, which lock onto the specific antigen on the invading material. This allows T lymphocytes to find and destroy the pathogen.

Other kinds of white blood cells, known as phagocytes, surround and absorb the invading pathogens.

The most prominent parts of the immune system include:

• White blood cells
• Antibodies
• Complement system
• Spleen
• Bone Marrow
• Lymphatic system
• Thymus

Because of its ability to remember pathogens it has fought before, the immune system grows stronger and more effective after each exposure. When a new virus is introduced, the body produces antibodies, and keeps a copy to be replicated in the future.

Older forms of vaccines worked on this principle: introducing a weakened form of a viral antigen to the body, to “teach” the immune system the recipe it needs to fight it off. Newer vaccines offer the immune system the recipe itself, through mRNA.

Types of Autoimmune Disorders

Sometimes, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. This is a defining characteristic of autoimmune disorders. There are over 80 different types of autoimmune disorders, ranging in severity from mild to life-threatening. Some autoimmune disorders cause changes to organ growth or function, while others lead to destruction of tissue.

The causes of autoimmune disorders are the subject of many ongoing studies. In some circumstances, microorganisms such as viruses (such as COVID-19) or bacteria may be involved in triggering an autoimmune response. Some autoimmune disorders are inherited, and a person may be born with a genetic predisposition.

Examples of autoimmune disorders include:

• Myasthenia gravis
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Lupus
• Addison’s disease
• Celiac disease
• Dermatomyositis
• Graves disease
• Hashimoto thyroiditis
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Pernicious anemia
• Reactive arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjörgren syndrome
• Sarcoidosis
• And more

Many autoimmune disorders can be treated with timely and consistent medical expertise. Flare-ups and other changes in one’s condition can occur. Sometimes, a person’s physical condition may require them to take time away from work. Long-term disability benefits exist in order to provide some peace of mind in the face of financial uncertainty. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we are committed to ensuring that our clients receive the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Contact us today to learn more.

Long-Term Disability Benefits for Autoimmune Disorders

Long-term disability benefits exist in order to provide financial relief for individuals living with conditions that prevent them from being able to maintain employment. Unfortunately, sometimes insurance companies may deny coverage to eligible policyholders. If this has happened to you, you may be entitled to an appeal.

Our team of Ontario long-term disability lawyers is here to provide you with the support you need, whether in helping you prepare an initial claim or structuring an appeal for benefits you have been denied. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation and see how Preszler Injury Lawyers may be of service to you.

Contact Our Long-Term Disability Lawyers For a Free Initial Consultation

Living with an autoimmune condition can be challenging, often involving ongoing medical care and the risk of flare-ups. Some autoimmune conditions may be progressive, meaning they steadily worsen over time, further complicating a person’s ability to meaningfully engage with aspects of their day-to-day life.

Through long-term disability benefits, individuals living with autoimmune disorders may be able to receive financial support while they are unable to work. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with our long-term disability lawyers. See what a difference Preszler Injury Lawyers may be able to make for you.