Qualifying for SSD with Lupus

There are millions of Americans who qualify for Social Security Disability benefits—and many suffer from Lupus. In fact, estimates from the Lupus Foundation of America show as many as 1.5 million Americans suffer from the disease. This leaves many citizens wondering what Lupus is and what options for assistance are available to victims of this disabling condition.

For many Lupus patients, work isn’t an option because their health simply won’t allow it. Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are often the best option for these individuals, but the application process can be complicated. Fortunately, our lawyers can help you qualify for SSD benefits on the basis of Lupus.

Understanding Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues, such as bones, organs, and the skin. It is a non-contagious disease that afflicts women at a higher rate than men and is more prevalent among women of color than Caucasian women.

Inflammation caused by lupus can affect different body systems, such as joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart, and lungs. Four types of lupus exist:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (the most common and serious form of lupus)
• Discoid lupus erythematosus
• Drug-induced lupus erythematosus
• Neonatal lupus

Treatment is available for the disease, but there is no cure, and the prognosis for many patients is grim. One study examined the quality of life of patients suffering from Lupus and found the results were similar to those of patients afflicted with diseases such as HIV/AIDS, obstructive pulmonary disease, and lymphoma.

Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits with Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is evaluated by the SSA based on:

• The 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 (severe fatigue, fever, malaise, or involuntary weight loss)

OR

• Repeated manifestations of SLE, with at least two of the constitutional symptoms or signs (severe fatigue, fever, malaise, or involuntary weight loss) 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, persistence, or pace

For more information about lupus SSA evaluation procedures, talk with one of our SSD lawyers today.

We’re Here to Help You Get Your SSD Lupus Claim Approved

Once it progresses, lupus is a condition that can cause fatigue and malaise—conditions that make it difficult to perform in many occupations. If you have lupus, you may be too sick or weak to work, and that means you have no way to keep up with your medical bills and living expenses. Although you or someone you love may qualify for SSD with Lupus, the SSA may deny claims from those who don’t have legal representation.

The Social Security Disability lawyers at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin know the criteria the SSA uses to judge benefits applications, and we can make sure your claim is accurate, complete, and submitted on time. Contact us now to get started.