Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Reye’s Syndrome
Reye’s syndrome, also known as Reye syndrome, is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain. Reye’s syndrome can occur at any age but usually affects children and teenagers after a viral infection, most commonly the flu or chickenpox. Symptoms such as confusion, seizures and loss of consciousness need emergency treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of Reye’s syndrome can save a child’s life. Aspirin has been linked with Reye’s syndrome, so use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers for fever or pain. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 10.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Reye’s Syndrome Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with Reye’s syndrome do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. Claimants must either:
- Meet or closely match a listed condition in the Blue Book
OR
- Show through other evaluations that functional capacity limitations make you disabled.
Minors and adults that have lasting effects from a bout with Reye’s syndrome may meet or match several listed impairments that appear within the Blue Book. These include:
- Chronic Liver Disease – Sections 105.05 and 5.05
- Brain Damage – Section 11.04
- Intellectual Deficits – Sections 112.05 and 12.05
- Seizure Disorders – Sections 111.02, 111.03, 11.02, and 11.03
People who cannot meet a listing in the Blue Book may still be able to receive benefits by showing severe limitations in functional capacity. For this to happen, the SSA must complete a “residual functional capacity” (RFC) analysis.
Through this analysis, the SSA looks at how all of the applicant’s medical conditions affect their everyday life. This includes the effect of medical issues on the ability of adults to hold a job or for children to participate in age appropriate activities.
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 Reye’s syndrome and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
