incapacity benefit-thyroid

Bob_zodiac

My mam's friend has a thyroid problem that leaves her unable to do anything physical as she get's so tired.
She has only been diagnosed last week.
Can she claim incapacity benefit?

the_devil_made_me_do_it

Hmmm wouldn't like to say. I have two freinds both with thyroid problems, and they both work full time without a problem. Once medication is settled, I think thyroid dosen't affect quality of life.

Ted_Hutchinson

Incapacity Benefit is based on your ability to perform certain actions as detailed in the descriptor statements in the Personal Capability Assessment test. These statements together with the scoring system can be found at that All Work Test Calculator

It may be that along with many with ME/CFS/FMS and other conditions which create extreme fatigue the assessment doesn't take account of the ability to repeat actions as required through the day which clearly is necessary in the work situation. However a lot will depend on the support from her health professionals and how quickly she responds to treatment.
See Incapacity Benefit : Directgov - Disabled people for more details of the qualifying criteria.

Dora_the_Explorer_5

Bob_zodiac wrote:

My mam's friend has a thyroid problem that leaves her unable to do anything physical as she get's so tired.
She has only been diagnosed last week.
Can she claim incapacity benefit?

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyriodism are very common and easily managed diseases. They are well understood and treatment is very straightforward, allowing people to recover very quickly and stay well.
Probably the chances of anyone being awarded Incapacity Benefit for these conditions is vanishingly small as they are not incpacitating diseases.

carol_a_3

I have had the the same condition for 12 years and, once you are on the medication which takes a few weeks to take full effect you can lead a perfectly (well nearly perfectly, I still can't lose weight, get a bit tired and cold) normal life. I would never have considered myself to be eligible for any benefits.

yellow_dog

Same here, I`ve had it for 14 years. Even with increased doses over time still feel a bit tired and yes I struggle to keep my weight down! You just have to live with it.

Penny-Pincher!!

Hiya

She will be able receive free perscriptions if she has to take thyroxine:D

I was DX'd with an underactive thyroid 9 years ago and managed to work FT. Was extremely tired all the time but once medication was sorted it all balanced out and I was fine. Its all to do with the metabolic rate.

It will depend how the condition disables her IYSWIM.

I wish her well.

PP
xx

furby-2003

i have an underactive thyriod, but to be honest ive bairly even noticed. im the same now as ive always been . 9 stone a bit tired and cold but nothing a jumper can't sort out. i work and raise a 5 year old and run a house hold almost singlehandedly. i guessed thats why i was tired