can you get disability for eds

3 min read 10-12-2024

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders. Its symptoms vary widely in severity, making it challenging to navigate the disability application process. This article explores the possibility of receiving disability benefits for EDS and provides guidance for navigating the system.

Understanding the Social Security Disability Process

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet specific criteria. These programs assess your ability to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA). This means working at a job that pays a certain amount per month. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step sequential evaluation process to determine disability.

The Five-Step Evaluation Process:

Are you working and earning above the SGA limit? If yes, you're not disabled.
Do you have a severe impairment? EDS, with its wide range of symptoms, can qualify as a severe impairment. However, the SSA needs substantial medical evidence.
Does your impairment meet or equal a listed impairment? The SSA has a list of impairments that automatically qualify for disability. While there isn't a specific listing for EDS, some severe manifestations of EDS could meet the criteria of other listed impairments (e.g., musculoskeletal disorders).
Can you perform your past relevant work? The SSA will consider your past work experience and whether your EDS prevents you from doing it.
Can you perform any other work? If your EDS prevents you from doing your past work, the SSA will assess whether you can perform other jobs given your limitations.

Proving Disability Due to EDS

The key to a successful application is strong medical documentation. This should clearly demonstrate the severity of your EDS and how it impacts your ability to work.

Essential Medical Evidence:

Comprehensive medical history: Detailing the onset, progression, and severity of your symptoms is critical.
Detailed physician reports: These should include diagnoses, treatment plans, and functional limitations. Your doctor should specifically address how your EDS affects your daily activities and ability to work.
Test results: Genetic testing confirming your EDS diagnosis, along with imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) showing joint instability or other related issues, are valuable.
Physical therapy records: Demonstrating consistent treatment and the limitations despite therapy strengthens your case.
Occupational therapy evaluations: These can assess your functional capacity for work-related tasks.
Letters from family, friends, or caregivers: These can provide firsthand accounts of your limitations in daily life.

Common EDS Symptoms Affecting Work Capacity:

Chronic pain: Widespread, debilitating pain can severely limit your ability to concentrate and perform work tasks.
Joint instability (hypermobility): Frequent dislocations and subluxations can cause significant functional limitations.
Fatigue: Intense and prolonged fatigue makes working challenging or impossible.
Gastrointestinal issues: Frequent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can result in missed work.
Cognitive difficulties: “Brain fog,” memory problems, and difficulty concentrating can impact work performance.
Cardiovascular issues: POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) can cause significant limitations.
Skin fragility: Easy bruising and slow wound healing can impact the types of jobs you can safely perform.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of EDS is most likely to qualify for disability?

A: The severity of symptoms, not the specific type of EDS, determines eligibility. Even individuals with milder forms of EDS might qualify if their symptoms significantly impair their ability to work.

Q: How long does the disability application process take?

A: The process can take several months, even years. Be prepared for delays and be persistent in following up on your application.

Q: What if my application is denied?

A: You have the right to appeal a denial. It's advisable to consult with a disability attorney or advocate who can help you navigate the appeals process.

Conclusion

Getting disability for EDS is possible but requires meticulous documentation of your condition's severity and impact on your ability to work. Gathering comprehensive medical records and collaborating closely with your healthcare team is crucial. Don't hesitate to seek legal assistance if your initial application is denied. Remember, persistence and thorough documentation are key to a successful outcome.