Digestive System Disorders and Long-Term Disability Benefits in Canada

More than 20 million Canadians live with a form of digestive system disorder, making Canada a nation with one of the highest incidence rates of digestive issues in the world. Some digestive system disorders are genetic, while others are acquired through a person’s life.

Regardless of the cause, living with a digestive system disorder can be debilitating. An individual may have to make serious adjustments to their living and working practices, and in some cases may need to take time away from work altogether.

If you or someone you love is living with a digestive system disorder, there may be financial support available through a long-term disability claim. Whether you are wondering what is considered long-term disability in Ontario, or if you have been denied long-term disability coverage by your insurance provider, contact us today to discuss your case. Our long-term disability lawyers are here to listen, and see how we might be of service to you.

What Is the Digestive System?

The digestive system is a combination of organs that work together to break down and process food, so that it can be absorbed by the body as nutrients. It is made up of the gastrointestinal tract and a collection of solid organs.

The gastrointestinal tract is a series of hollow organs that connect in a long, winding tube from the mouth to the anus. The liver, pancreas, and gallbladder are solid organs that also form part of the digestive system.

Food enters through the mouth, in which the chewing process breaks it down into smaller pieces, which can then be swallowed and travel down the esophagus. From there, the food passes to the stomach, whose digestive juices further break it down.

The contents (now called chyme) then pass into the small intestine, where they are mixed with digestive juices from the pancreas and liver. The small intestine’s walls absorb both water and nutrients from chyme into the bloodstream.Unused contents proceed to the large intestine, and exit the body through the rectum.

As with any bodily system, no set of organs work alone. Along the GI tract, bacteria sometimes known as gut flora help the body digest nutrients. The circulatory, endocrine, and nervous systems also provide key influence on the digestive process.

Types of Digestive System Disorders

Disorders affecting the digestive system can be minor or life-altering. They may be caused by genetic factors, acquired through life circumstances, or a combination thereof.

Modern scientific studies have linked stress to digestive system issues. An otherwise healthy individual may encounter a trauma, whether through a car accident or slip and fall, that may induce ongoing digestive system disorders.

Just some examples of digestive system disorders include:

  • Hernias
  • Colitis
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Liver disease
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Short bowel syndrome
  • Gastritis
  • Cirrhosis
  • Gastroparesis
  • And more

Long-Term Disability Coverage for Digestive System Disorders

There may be support available for individuals living with digestive system disorders, through long-term disability (LTD) benefits. The purpose of LTD benefits is to provide an insured policyholder with up to 70% of their regular income while they take time to recover from or stabilize their condition.

Sometimes, an insurance provider may deny coverage to an eligible claimant. In such a case, it may be possible to file an appeal and recover that financial support. Our long-term disability lawyers are committed to providing dedicated, time-sensitive service, and may be able to help you file an appeal.

Wherever you may be in your long-term disability claim journey, our team at Preszler Injury Lawyers is available to listen, and see if we may be able to provide tailored guidance in your case. Contact us today to discuss your options.

Contact Our Ontario Digestive System Disorders Lawyers Today For a Free Initial Consultation

Every case is unique. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we respect that each client comes with their own sets of needs, as well as their own challenges. Our long-term disability lawyers are committed to providing compassionate service, no matter which part of the claims process you may be facing at the moment.

From addressing your questions about filing a claim to helping to structure an appeal, we are dedicated to getting you the financial support you deserve. Contact us today to book your free initial consultation, and learn how our long-term disability lawyers may be able to help you.