Lupus offers frequent reminders of its presence, causing pain and wearing down the person carrying it. It can make life difficult, and some days, nearly impossible to continue any regular activity. For the individual who finds themselves unable to work, SSDI may be the next step. But just having lupus may not be enough to qualify for SSDI.
What Is Lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that is characterized primarily by inflammation, pain, and fatigue. It most commonly affects women and some ethnic groups (including African-Americans), and can be crippling. For many patients, debilitating pain and chronic fatigue can make employment impossible.
Characterized by joint pain, fatigue, a “butterfly rash,” and occasionally, fever, lupus makes its presence known over time. The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that approximately 1.5 Americans live with the condition, and there are about 16,000 newly diagnosed cases every year.
Recognized By SSA
Lupus is listed in the Social Security Administration’s “blue book” under Immune System Disorders. Systemic lupus erythematosus is listed under Section 14.02.
Like any disabling condition, Social Security wants to know one thing: how lupus prevents you from working. Your records must show that you have two of these four conditions:
- Acute, severe fatigue
- Involuntary weight loss
- Malaise
- Lupus-induced fever
And affect two body systems (cardiovascular, neurological, respiratory, mental, etc.)
The condition must also appear frequently and regularly curtail your daily activities, including social functioning and completing tasks in a timely fashion.
Qualifying For SSDI
A diagnosis of lupus from your doctor is not enough—and only the start. Evidence such as medical notes, treatments, and other documentation must show that not only do you have lupus, but the effects are preventing you from engaging in substantially gainful employment. Furthermore, you must show that the effects will last at least twelve continuous months, or will end in death.
Building your case on solid medical evidence gives you a strong foundation for building your case. Working with your doctor and continuing prescribed therapies show that you are proactive in taking care of your condition. Working with an experienced disability lawyer can make this complex process easier.
However, if you don’t qualify for SSDI because your lupus symptoms do not meet SSA’s conditions, you may still qualify for a medical-vocational allowance. You’ll need to show SSA that your lupus symptoms inhibit your ability to work to the point where you cannot find suitable employment that fits your prior work experience, education, and age.
Houston’s Social Security Attorney
Whether you’re applying for Social Security or Disability through Social Security, the laws are complex and the process difficult to maneuver. With an experienced disability law firm to help, you can get your application completed right the first time, and have a better chance of receiving the benefits you deserve.
We’ve helped over 4,000 Houstonians get SSDI and other disability benefits. The Herren Law Firm in Houston, TX can assist with your application, appeals, and records gathering to prove your case, and win your claim. Contact us today at 713-682-8194 (or use our online contact form) to schedule your free consultation. There’s no obligation and no up-front fees, and we only collect a fee if we win your case
