Understanding How Symptoms Affect Work Capacity
Chronic Heart Disease (CHD) is a life-altering health condition that affects thousands of Aussies every year. For those being faced with the challenges of CHD, understanding your rights and options for financial support is crucial. In this blog post we will delve into the intricacies of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims for individuals suffering from chronic heart disease, shedding light on the symptoms that can significantly impact your capacity to work.
What is Chronic Heart Disease?
Chronic Heart Disease is a broad term which includes a range of conditions affecting the heart. A major and well-known disease which comes under this is Coronary heart disease. In 2020–21, an estimated 571,000 Australians aged 18 and over (2.9% of the adult population) were living with CHD (ABS, 2023). On top of this, people with chronic disease are 60% more likely to not participate in the workforce and are less likely to be employed full-time*.
There is no single cause for coronary heart disease. Symptoms for the disease can include:
- Chest Pain which can be described as pressure or tightness in the chest.
- Shortness of breath – feeling as though you are unable to catch your breath.
- Fatigue. Feeling exceptionally and unusually tired.
And in some cases, heart attack. Classic signs and symptoms of a heart attack include crushing chest pain or pressure, shoulder or arm pain, shortness of breath, and sweating*.
People with pre-existing chronic conditions such as CHD are also at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and experiencing complications or more severe illnesses as a result*. This can affect everyday life more significantly for those with CHD.
Symptoms Impacting Work Capacity:
The symptoms listed above can significantly affect those who suffer with Chronic Heart Disease in the workplace.
How do these symptoms affect work capacity?
Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of CHD, often resulting from the heart’s compromised ability to pump blood effectively. Individuals may experience constant tiredness, which can affect their ability to sustain the energy levels required for regular work duties. This exhaustion can extend beyond physical tiredness, affecting concentration necessary for many types of employment.
Shortness of Breath: Breathlessness, especially during physical activity, is a classic symptom of CHD. For those working in physically demanding jobs, this symptom can significantly affect their capacity to carry out tasks efficiently.
Chest Pain and Discomfort: Chest pain is a common symptom of CHD. The unpredictability of chest pain episodes can make it challenging for individuals to commit to regular work schedules, as they may need to take breaks or leave work abruptly during episodes. Employers may find it challenging to accommodate these unpredictable interruptions, impacting the individual’s employability.
Medication Side Effects: Many individuals with CHD are prescribed medications to manage their condition. Some of these medications may have side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness, which can hinder an individual’s ability to perform certain job tasks safely.
TPD Claims for Chronic Heart Disease:
We follow the below steps when looking at TPD claims for CHD.
Step One – Medical Documentation. Comprehensive medical documentation is crucial when filing a TPD claim for chronic heart disease. This should include detailed records of diagnoses, treatment plans, and the impact of symptoms on daily life and work. It is essential to provide a detailed medical history, including any hospitalisations, surgeries, and consultations with specialists.
Step Two – Consulting Medical Professionals: It is essential for individuals with CHD to regularly consult with their healthcare providers. Seeking professional advice not only ensures appropriate medical management but also provides additional evidence for TPD claims.
Step Three – Legal Assistance: Engaging legal professionals with expertise in TPD claims for chronic heart disease can streamline the process and enhance the likelihood of a successful claim. We work with fantastic lawyers who are experts in this area.
Understanding the symptoms that impact work capacity and navigating the TPD claims process is essential for those seeking financial support.
For more information get in touch.
Read more on CHD visit our sources: