Everyday People Matter

Epilepsy and Social Security Disability Benefits

On Behalf of | Nov 27, 2020 | Epilepsy

More than 3 million Americans live with epilepsy, a neurological condition that is marked by frequent seizures, among other symptoms. The month of November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Epilepsy can be a lifelong condition with no complete cure. However, it is possible to manage the symptoms of epilepsy.

If you or a loved one suffer from epilepsy, you may be eligible for a claim for Social Security disability benefits for your condition. Epilepsy is included in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book listing of conditions for disabilities that qualify for benefits.

However, a mere diagnosis of epilepsy will not qualify you for benefits. Your seizures must be regular enough to interfere with your ability to work and earn a sustainable income. For instance, your condition must result in convulsive daytime seizures or seizures that occur at night and affect your ability to function normally in the daytime.

If your epilepsy does not result in convulsive seizures, you may still qualify for benefits. In many cases seizures may be non – convulsive in nature. For instance, a catatonic state that lasts for a few seconds, a lack of response, or chronic tremors- all of these may constitute non – convulsive symptoms of epilepsy that can affect a person’s ability to work.