Social Security & SSI Disability Benefits: Sjogren’s Syndrome

Winning Your Case

You or your child can win a Sjogren’s syndrome Social Security disability and SSI benefits case if you meet Social Security’s –

1. Non-Medical Criteria, and
2. Disability Criteria.

With the disability criteria,

1. You need to understand how Social Security evaluates Sjogren’s syndrome (covered on this page)
2. You satisfy a Social Security Sjogren’s Listing (also covered on this page) or you have disabling Functional Limitations, and
3. You Submit Winning Evidence.

What is Social Security Looking For With Sjogren’s Syndrome – Medical Evidence

Social Security knows that Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune system disorder (the body attacks itself). The most common symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth. Social Security will not find these symptoms disabling. In severe cases of Sjogren’s, symptoms include peripheral neuropathy (usually in the hands and feet); fatigue; illness; and kidney, liver, and lung inflammation. This level of severity and these symptoms are less common, and Social Security can find these symptoms disabling. Those with Sjogren’s may also suffer a rheumatic condition such as arthritis or lupus. These symptoms are also less common, and Social Security can also find these symptoms disabling.

Social Security will need proof of your medical diagnosis. A diagnosis of severe Sjorgren’s (symptoms noted above that are in addition to dry eyes and mouth) is made with blood tests, a biopsy, clinical observations of inflammation (a doctor sees it), or other organ testing if other organs are affected. It less severe cases, typical medications include hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) and methotrexate. In severe cases, treatment varies very widely depending on the severity of your Sjogren’s and which body organs are affected.

The Sjogrens Social Security & SSI Listing

Satisfying the Adult Listing 14.10 means proving sections 1 and 2. Satisfying the Child Listing 114.10 means proving only section 1.

1. Two or more affected body organs with one of those organs affected at a moderate degree and two or more of significant fatigue, fever, illness, or weight loss; or
2. Several Sjorgren syndrome manifestations with two or more of significant tiredness, fever, illness, or weight loss and at least one of the following affected at a marked degree –
   1. Everyday living,
   2. One-on-one and group dealings, or
   3. Finishing endeavors timely.