Is Lupus A Disability?

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), lupus qualifies as a disability. However, it must affect two or more organ systems. Further, an individual must display at least two of the fundamental symptoms like fever, fatigue, involuntary weight loss, or malaise.

Healthcare professionals have estimated that there is no single test for lupus. However, blood tests, urine tests, and physical examinations may give clear evidence of the condition. It has been noticed that symptoms can become severe, thereby preventing those with lupus from working and prompting them to seek disability for lupus.

lupus is listed in the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book under section 14.02 (Systemic lupus erythematosus). A disability applicant must prove certain symptoms in order to qualify for aid.

What is lupus?

lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease whereby the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. Further, it can cause inflammation and pain in any or all parts of the body. It can affect the blood cells, brain, heart, kidneys, lungs, joints, and skin. Some of the common symptoms of lupus are:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Skin lesions 
• Fingers and toes that turn white or blue 
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches, confusion, or memory loss 
• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
• A butterfly-shaped rash on the face 
• Chest pain
• Dry eyes

Every person may experience different symptoms. While some may experience mild signs, others have severe symptoms. There may be frequent episodes or flares of symptoms. 

lupus is known to cause vision loss or blindness, strokes, seizures, and kidney damage. However, the ill effects of lupus are completely individual to the person.

Can you get disability for lupus?

Yes, you can get the disability with lupus. However, you must show evidence of your disability. For instance, you must experience at least two of the following symptoms:

• Frequent exhaustion
• Low physical activity or mental activity
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Malaise (physical discomfort or illness that results in low physical or mental activity)

The SSA must derive from your medical records that the disorder severely decreases your functioning. This may include:

• Limited ability to maintain personal connections or participate in social gatherings.
• Limited ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as cooking, cleaning, bathing, caring for pets, and other basic tasks.
• Limited ability to complete tasks promptly due to issues with stamina, speed, or concentration 

People with lupus may apply for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for lupus. SSDI is for applicants that have accumulated a certain amount of work credits, while SSI is for those with a low income. To receive either, you must meet the eligibility criteria.

Medical evidence required for lupus disability benefits

If you meet the disability listing, you will have to prove your case through medical documents or records. If you don’t have proper medical evidence to prove your disability, the SSA department will not approve your disability claim. Therefore, it is crucial to have complete medical records of treatment for your current health condition.

The SSA follows the guidelines of the American College of Rheumatology. According to their standard, there are eleven criteria to determine if an individual has lupus or not. An individual must meet at least four of these criteria as set by the American College of Rheumatology for the Classification of Systemic lupus Erythematosus.

The criteria include discoid rash, molar rash, oral ulcers, photosensitivity, renal disorder, serositis, and arthritis. Antinuclear antibody, neurologic disorder, immunologic disorder, and hematologic disorders are some of the other disorders that are taken into consideration.

How to apply for lupus disability benefits

To get SSDI or SSI for lupus, the first thing that you need to check is whether or not you are eligible. Make sure you have your financial details, educational information, and work history at the ready before you begin your application. 

You will need to provide all these details in the application form. Have copies of all documents and medical records. When it comes to any disabling disease, the Blue Book has all the details related to the specific condition.

Need legal help? Get in touch to pursue disability benefits.

Get your case evaluated and determine your chances of receiving disability benefits to deal with your situation. Dealing with life challenges can be easier when you have an experienced disability lawyers in orlando  by your side that can help you. 

To schedule a consultation, call our Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Texas  office at 1-888-774-7243, or contact us online.

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