Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Sjögren’s Syndrome
Sjögren’s syndrome is a disorder of your immune system identified by its two most common symptoms — dry eyes and a dry mouth. The condition often accompanies other immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. In Sjögren’s syndrome, the mucous membranes and moisture-secreting glands of your eyes and mouth are usually affected first — resulting in decreased tears and saliva. Although you can develop Sjögren’s syndrome at any age, most people are older than 40 at the time of diagnosis. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 14.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Sjögren’s Syndrome Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with Sjögren’s syndrome do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. Here they are below:
- There is involvement of two or more organs/body systems with:
- One of the organs/body systems involved to at least a moderate level of severity; and
- At least two of the constitutional symptoms or signs (like a fever, involuntary weight loss, malaise or severe fever)
OR
- Repeated manifestations of Sjögren’s syndrome, with at least two to the constitutional symptoms or signs (involuntary weight loss, malaise, severe fatigue, or fever) and one of the following at the marked level:
- Limitation of activities of daily living.
- Limitation in maintaining social functioning.
- Limitation in completing tasks in a timely manner due to deficiencies in concentration, page or persistence.
The majority of patients with Sjögren’s syndrome remain relatively healthy and are able to function in their lives. However, some patients with Sjögren’s syndrome experience many debilitating symptoms.
The SSA will need to know what treatments you have received for Sjögren’s syndrome, your response to those treatments, and most importantly if your health status has worsened despite those treatments.
Be sure that your doctor has documented the following:
- Medications that you are receiving, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, pain medications, or any other related medications
- The dose and frequency of your medications
- Any treatments or lifestyle modifications that you have been required to make, such as using eye drops, using saliva substitutes, etc.
- Any surgeries or procedures that you may have had, including operative notes or pathology reports, if applicable
- Any related medical complications, such as weakness, neurological complications, heart problems, or intellectual difficulties
Not every patient who has Sjögren’s syndrome will meet the listing as outlined in the Blue Book. However, you still might be unable to hold out substantial gainful employment. It is essential that you provide adequate medical documentation about your treatments, medications, and side effects to the SSA to qualify with Sjögren’s syndrome.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
