Can I Get VA Disability Benefits for Lupus?
“Lupus” is generally used as a shorthand for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). There are other forms of this condition, including three types of lupus of the skin, a type of lupus that is triggered by certain prescription drugs, and a type of lupus that only affects newborns. However, SLE is the most common type of lupus, accounting for about 70% of all cases. And, it’s the only type of lupus that has its own Social Security Blue Book listing.
Symptoms of Lupus
The most common symptoms include fatigue, fever, weight loss, hair loss, skin rash, chest pain when taking a deep breath, sensitivity to sunlight, mouth sores, and swollen lymph nodes. This disease can also have a serious impact on organs and body systems, including:
- Kidneys
- Heart
- Lungs
- Nervous system
- Digestive tract
- Circulation
- Blood
While many people live and work successfully with this condition, some symptoms can be debilitating.
Qualifying for SSDI Under the Blue Book Listing
Under the Blue Book listing for SLE, the applicant must either:
- Suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus with involvement of two or more organs/systems and:
- At least one organ or system is involved at a level of at least moderate severity, AND
- Suffers at least two constitutional signs or symptoms (severe fatigue, fever, malaise or involuntary weight loss
OR
- Repeated manifestations of SLE with at least two of the constitutional symptoms listed above AND at least one of the following at a marked level:
- Limitation of activities of daily living, OR
- Limitation in maintaining social functioning, OR
- Limitation in the ability to complete tasks in a timely manner due to deficiencies in concentration, persistence or pace
Qualifying for SSDI for Lupus If You Don’t Meet the Blue Book Listing
If you believe you are disabled by SLE but don’t meet the Blue Book criteria, believe you are disabled by another type of lupus, or suffer from this disease along with other conditions that in combination prevent you from earning a living, there is another possible way to qualify.
The alternative process involves assessing your residual functional capacity–how much work you can do in spite of your medical conditions–and then using other factors to determine whether there is still work you can do. That analysis considers factors such as your age, your highest level of education, the types of work you have performed in the past, and what skills may carry over to other types of work.
Get the Help You Need with Your SSDI Claim
Many SSDI applications are denied simply because the applicant didn’t provide sufficient medical information to support a finding of disability. At Disability Help Group, we know exactly what type of information the Social Security Administration (SSA) is looking for and how to put together the strongest application possible.
To learn more about how we can help, call 800-800-3332 or fill out our contact form here.
