For Social Securitys 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.
What percentage of lupus patients are on disability?
A Lupus Foundation of America survey found 55 percent of lupus patients reported a complete or partial loss of their income because they no longer are able to work full time due to complications of lupus. One in three have been temporarily disabled by the disease, and one in four currently receive disability payments.
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.
Can you claim benefits for lupus?
If you have been diagnosed with lupus, you could be entitled to disability benefits from the government. There are a range of benefits available with some that are means-tested (based on your household income) and others that are not.
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.
Can you gain weight with lupus?
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.
Can lupus patients work?
Many people with lupus are able to continue to work, although they may need to make changes in their work environment. Flexible work hours, job-sharing, and telecommuting may help you to keep working. It may be helpful to begin to make such arrangements soon after you have been diagnosed with lupus.
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.
Is discoid lupus a disability?
The Social Security Administration only lists systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as an official disability. Discoid lupus is not on the SSAs official list. Even if your symptoms dont meet the criteria used by the SSA, you can still seek disability benefits through a medical-vocational allowance.
Does lupus go away?
Theres currently no cure for lupus. Treatment of lupus is focused on controlling your symptoms and limiting the amount of the damage the disease does to your body. The condition can be managed to minimize the impact lupus has on your life, but it will never go away.
Why do I get headaches with lupus?
Some doctors believe that headaches and migraines develop during active stages of the disease when lupus inflames the central nervous system (the spinal cord and brain) and the blood vessels. Lupus headaches are more common in people with Raynauds phenomenon, another circulatory complication of lupus.
Can lupus make you gain weight?
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.
Can you drink alcohol with lupus?
Am I allowed to drink alcohol? Most people with lupus who are old enough to drink alcohol can do so in moderation. Be aware, however, that alcohol can change the way the body uses or metabolizes certain medications, rushing them into the bloodstream.
Does your face burn with lupus?
In cutaneous lupus, the immune system targets skin cells, causing inflammation that leads to red, thick, and often scaly rashes and sores that may burn or itch. Symptoms may flare up and disappear in unpredictable patterns. Without treatment, flares may persist for months or longer.