Can I Get Social Security Disability for an Autoimmune Disease?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers a number of conditions to be severe enough to prevent you from working.  Regardless of the condition, all impairments are subject to evaluation and you must meet certain criteria to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.  Though most of the conditions listed by the SSA as disabling are permanent or expected to result in death, those that are not require evidence showing that the condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year.  Only experienced and dedicated SSI lawyers can assist with the disability application process effectively.

Autoimmune diseases cause the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack and destroy healthy body tissue. The immune system helps protect the body by attacking potentially harmful antigens, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins; however, in people who have autoimmune diseases, the immune system is unable to determine a difference between harmful antigens and healthy body tissue and attacks otherwise healthy body tissue and antigens.  Currently, there are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases, which are sometimes referred to as rheumatic diseases, connective tissue disorders, or collagen vascular disorders.  The cause for this autoimmune response is unknown, but some medical experts speculate that certain microorganisms or drugs may play a role in how people acquire autoimmune disorders.  Experts believe that some people may have genes that make them more susceptible to developing autoimmune disorders.

Autoimmune diseases are considered disabling conditions by the SSA and may qualify you for either SSD or SSI benefits dependent on the condition and your age.  Because there are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases, SSA evaluation is dependent on the specific autoimmune disease.  As autoimmune diseases affect the immune system, they are classified with other conditions that cause dysfunction in one or more areas of your immune system.  To have any disability questions answered contact an experienced injury lawyer in the New Mexico area.