For Social Security's purposes, lupus
qualifies as a disability
when it meets these conditions: It involves two or more organs or body systems. It includes at least two major signs or symptoms, such as severe fatigue, fever, malaise, and involuntary weight loss.
Can I claim disability for lupus?
If your lupus has made work impossible or has significantly limited your ability to maintain full-time, gainful employment, then you may be able to get approved for disability benefits through the
Social Security Administration
(SSA). Meeting the Blue Book listing, those with lupus can qualify for disability benefits.
Is lupus a long term disability?
Lupus Is
a Long Term Disability
If you are considering filing a claim, have had your claim denied, or are at any stage of a disability claim for lupus, please call our office to learn how we can help you in a completely free consultation at 877- 877-583-2524 or fill out the contact form on our website.
Is lupus considered a disability for work?
Know Your Rights as a Person With Lupus
Learning about the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) can help. The ADA requires employers to provide
reasonable accommodations for
employees who have a disability, including lupus, so they can continue to perform their job.
How long does it take to get disability for lupus?
What to expect. It can take
between three and five months to obtain an initial decision
. Almost two out of three applicants are denied benefits initially, and most people who file a written appeal (called “reconsideration”) also are denied. The third level appeal before an administrative law judge is most successful.
What does a lupus headache feel like?
In fact, the headaches you have are sometimes simply called “lupus headaches” or “lupus fog.” These headaches may appear along with other brain problems caused by lupus. These include
fatigue, confusion, memory issues
, or trouble concentrating.
What should lupus patients avoid?
Heart
attack risk is 50 times higher in people with lupus, so patients with lupus should be extra vigilant against foods with known links to heart disease, such as red meat, fried foods, and dairy.
What pain medication is prescribed for lupus?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are used to treat pain, inflammation, and stiffness due to lupus.
What does lupus fatigue feel like?
Fatigue with Lupus. Fatigue is defined as
feeling tired or lacking energy
, no matter how well or how long you sleep. This exhaustion can be both physical and mental. Some people describe it as a similar feeling to having the flu.
Does lupus get worse over time?
Most people with lupus have mild disease characterized by episodes — called flares — when signs and symptoms get worse for a while, then
improve or even disappear completely for a time
.
What benefits can I claim for having lupus?
Adults with SLE may be eligible for
Supplemental Security Income (SSI, for low-income people)
or Social Security disability income (SSDI, for those who paid taxes into the Social Security system). The SSA details how significant the functional impairments caused by lupus must be for it to qualify as a disability.
Can lupus suppress your appetite?
Weight changes — Lupus can sometimes cause weight loss or weight gain. Weight loss may be unintentional and due to
decreased
appetite or problems with the digestive system (see ‘Digestive system' below). It can also be a side effect of some medications used to treat lupus.
Do I have to tell my employer I have lupus?
Legally,
you are not required to tell your employer about lupus
. If you are working and become too sick to continue working, you may be able to take advantage of the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Is it hard to work with lupus?
Working With Lupus. An autoimmune condition like lupus can cause many symptoms that
may make it hard to work
. Achy joints, headaches, fatigue, arthritis, sun sensitivity, brain fog, and seizures can all get in the way of a productive day on the job. The unpredictability of lupus adds another layer of difficulty.
What helps with lupus flare ups?
- Learn how to tell that a flare is coming.
- See your doctors regularly.
- Reduce stress by setting realistic goals for yourself.
- Limit the time you spend in the sun and in fluorescent and halogen light.
- Choose healthy foods most of the time.
- Get enough sleep and rest.
How long do lupus patients live?
For people with lupus, some treatments can increase the risk of developing potentially fatal infections. However, the majority of people with lupus can expect a normal or near-normal life expectancy. Research has shown that many people with a lupus diagnosis have
been living with the disease for up to 40 years
.
