Over the years we have represented many clients in Long Term Disability Insurance claims for POTS (Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome)  or EDS (Ehlers-Danlos syndrome)or MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome). Then we started to notice a rise in cases where 2 or all 3 syndromes had been diagnosed.

In 2016 Researchers found a genetic mutation that links Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). See One Gene Mutation Links Three Mysterious Debilitating Diseases

See also One Gene Mutation Links Three Mysterious, Debilitating Diseases

Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

 EDS is a group of disorders that affect the connective tissues —  your skin, joints and blood vessel walls. Connective tissue provide strength and elasticity to the underlying structures in your body.

According to the Genetic & Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), There are 13 types of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS). You can view more detailed information about all 13 types of EDS on the GARD website, as well as the Ehlers-Danlos Society’s website. 

POTS or “Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome” 

POTS is an unusual condition that causes the Autonomic Nervous System to malfunction.

POTS symptoms can include tachycardia, heart palpitations, chest pain, fainting, nausea, rapid gastric emptying, blood pooling in the extremities, sleep abnormalities, an inability to exert oneself, chronic headaches, fatigue, and difficulty thinking, concentrating or communicating. Even with minimal exertion, the POTS patient can suffer from an irregular heartbeat, which reduces the blood supply to the brain and can cause them to pass out. Simply standing up can be a struggle for a person with POTS.

MCAS, also called Mast Cell Activation Syndrome

MCAS is an immune disorder. Mast cells are immune cells which are supposed to protect the body from foreign invaders by producing histamines. MCAS occurs when mast cells malfunction and go into over-production mode. 

Symptoms can include skin problems (rash or hives), GI issues (vomiting and diarrhea), Cardiovascular symptoms (low blood pressure, passing out), respiratory/asthma type symptoms, and brain issues like brain fog, vertigo, headaches, etc.

MCAS is sometimes seen as a comorbidity of EDS and POTS, and scientists are starting to investigate whether activation of mast cells is a contributing factor in fibromyalgia.

Has Your LTD Insurance Benefit been denied for EDS, POTS and/or MCAS?

Because these conditions aren’t common, Insurance companies don’t understand them. That is why we have had clients get denied on their long term disability insurance claims, even though they were debilitated by these conditions !

 If your long-term disability insurance claim has been denied, feel free to  Call (866)-242-3176 for a FREE CONSULTATION. We will be happy to answer your questions or concerns. Call today to find out how we can help.