I have epilepsy which was diagnosed 20 years ago, although I think I have had it all my adult life, but not diagnosed until later.
As those that have it, know that ‘most’ people learn to live with it by using various medicines and can drive and work as long as it is under control. I have a tremendious empathe for those who have it to the degree that it wrecks their lives.
However, one of the problems with epilepsy is that as time goes along, it IS common for the types of seizures(there are Many) and the severity progressively become worse.
That is what mine has done. I am in a extreme high stress type of work, it always has been. However, the stress has began to cause my symptoms to become worse and not controlled by my meds. …I can not do the work I have done for all these years.
I had to take six weeks medical leave early last year – 2008 (with my doctor’s agreement/approval). Then later, last of July, 2008, I quit my most recent job of 2 1/2 years DUE to the high stress (again, with backup of my doctor). I had been able to deal with the ever changing aspect of it in the past, but no longer.
My doctor says ‘go for it’ when I discussed appling for disability – I have been with him for 17 years. Of course, my medical history has all the details, inclusive of last year and has the doctor’s letters that he wrote to my previous employers.
So – my question, finally :), does anyone have any ‘experience’ with having submitted for disability under these conditions. Or, does someone that has ever worked ‘for’ Social Security have an opinion, inclusive of anyone maybe in legal profession that has worked on type issue.
A sincere thank you for all who respond.
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ANSWER:
While I can’t provide legal advice, I can share some general information about applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for epilepsy:
Key Points for Your Case:
1. Long documented history (20 years) with consistent medical care
2. Progressive worsening of condition
3. Clear impact on ability to work
4. Doctor’s support for disability claim
5. Medical documentation of work accommodations and leaves
Tips for Applying:
1. Gather detailed medical records, especially from the past year
2. Include documentation of:
– All seizure types and frequency
– Medication history and side effects
– Work limitations and accommodations
– Doctor’s notes and recommendations
– Employment history showing how condition affected work
3. Be specific about how epilepsy affects your ability to work:
– Safety concerns
– Impact of stress on seizures
– Medication side effects
– Memory/cognitive issues
– Transportation limitations
Important Note:
Epilepsy is listed in Social Security’s Blue Book (Section 11.02), but you’ll need to show that:
– Your seizures are documented and occur regularly
– You’re following prescribed treatment
– The condition significantly impacts your ability to work
Consider consulting a disability attorney who specializes in SSDI claims, as they can help navigate the process and improve chances of approval.
Hope this will help.
Richard Lee Garcia, RN