Houston Social Security
Disability Attorney

Photo of David Dopkin
Photo of David Dopkin

Could a fibromyalgia diagnosis qualify you for Social Security?

On Behalf of | Mar 28, 2018 | blog

Many different medical conditions, both injuries and illnesses, can qualify people in the United States for Social Security Disability. Some people believe that only people with mobility issues or fatal conditions can qualify for Social Security Disability, but that is not the case. These benefits may be available to those with medical conditions that make regular work extremely difficult or impossible.

One such condition is fibromyalgia. For those who suffer from this condition, working a full-time job may simply not be an option. Pain, exhaustion and issues with cognitive function can all impact job performance and safety for professionals. Those with fibromyalgia may want to consider applying for Social Security Disability if working a job proves too difficult.

What is fibromyalgia?

The simplest way to describe fibromyalgia is as a disorder that causes pain, problems sleeping, issues with memory and changes in mood. While there is no known cause for the condition, it may have something to do with the brain amplifying pain signals from the body. Sometimes, people develop this condition after a trauma, such as an injury, illness or surgery. Other people slowly develop symptoms over time.

The condition results in pain over large parts of the body, sometimes at unbearable levels of intensity. Worse, there is no apparent direct cause for this pain, making it difficult for medical professionals to property treat. People with this condition may take pain relievers and anti-depressants to help with mood-related symptoms. Physical therapy and emotional counseling can also offer relief. However, there is no known cure, meaning symptoms can flare up at any time.

How does fibromyalgia impact a person’s job?

Clearly, any condition that results in elevated pain can keep a person from performing a job well. Slower work pace, lack of focus and even accidents can result when those in severe, chronic pain try to continue working despite their misery. Exhaustion from sleep problems and a general sense of fatigue can also impact the work ability of someone with fibromyalgia.

Headaches, a common symptom, can lead to increased distraction while working. Irritability can make an individual struggle in positions that require interacting with other people, like customers. People with fibromyalgia may need to take more time off than their co-workers, which can hurt their income or even cost their job.

Social Security Disability can help those who can’t work

If the pain of fibromyalgia impedes your ability to perform your job or engage in self-care like bathing, Social Security Disability benefits might be able to help. Knowing that you have a source of income could reduce your stress, which could help reduce your symptoms. You shouldn’t have to live in fear of winding up in severe financial straits because of a serious medical condition that you can’t control.