Applying for disability with Sjogren's Syndrome   Autoimmune disorders are frequently found on applications for Social Security Disability and SSI disability. The ones that tend to stand out in terms of their prominence in the social security list of impairments (the blue book) are the multiple sclerosis listing and the lupus listing. Many people, however, would be surprised to learn how many autoimmune disorders are not given a separate listing in the book or are only given scant consideration. Sjogren's is a condition that, currently, does not have a specific listing of its own. In other words, the manual does not contain a separate and distinct section that details the disability criteria an individual would need to satisfy (rather, their medical record documentation would need to satisfy such criteria) in order to win disability benefits under either the SSD or SSI program. This fact may change at some point, of course. The listing of impairments is not etched in stone and on a continuing basis they undergo revision. Unfortunately, most revisions tend to be fairly unsubstantial changes that involve adding a few words here or there to an existing listing or body system section (sections of the manual include 14.00, Immune system). In the meantime, of course, a claimant who decides to file for disability on the basis of sjogren's syndrome or any other condition may still be approved on the basis of receiving a medical vocational allowance. Additional information regarding approval standards can be found here: Social Security Disability Criteria. Some brief information on Sjogren's Syndrome Sjogren's Syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack and destroy the exocrine glands (saliva/tears). Although the usual sites for Sjogren's syndrome are the mouth and eyes, this autoimmune disorder can cause dryness of the nose, skin, and vagina. Additionally, Sjogrens's syndrome may also cause damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, brain, and pancreas. Sjogren's Syndrome affects as many as four million individuals in the United States alone, and the majority of these individuals are women. In fact, ninety percent of individuals diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome are women who are between the ages of forty and sixty. Unlike other autoimmune conditions Sjogren's syndrome does not go into remission and there is no known cure for the disorder. Since there is no cure or treatment that will restore exocrine gland function, most treatment is geared toward relieving symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome. Generally, treatment consists of moisture replacement for eyes, nose, and vagina, as well as medication to stimulate the production of saliva. More severe cases may require corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, pain relievers (joint pain is often associated with this disorder), and anti-rheumatoid medications such as methotrexate. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Social Security Disability Temporary Benefits and Closed Periods Will I qualify for disability with back pain, a bone spur, and bulging disks? Would I eligible for SSD if I file now since I was disabled at the time I stopped working? How to file for disability in Wisconsin The difference between Social Security Disability and SSI Filing for disability with migraines Winning and getting disability with a mental condition Getting disability for rheumatoid arthritis Social Security Disability Temporary Benefits and Closed Periods Will I qualify for disability with back pain, a bone spur, and bulging disks? Would I eligible for SSD if I file now since I was disabled at the time I stopped working? Partial Social Security Disability SSI benefits Winning a disability case for a child Appealing a disability denial by a judge Different types of Social Security Disability denials