Rheumatoid arthritis and your ability to work

When a medical condition keeps you from working, it can significantly impact your own well-being and your family’s stability. It’s important to get the financial support you need simply to make ends meet, and you may be able to do this through a disability claim. These benefits come from the Social Security Administration, and their intent is to help individuals who cannot support themselves.

Many medical conditions could make you eligible for these kinds of benefits, including rheumatoid arthritis. This is a condition that is quite common, but in severe cases, it can leave a person unable to meet the physical demands of a job. If you have this type of medical issue and you cannot work, you may have a valid claim to disability benefits through the SSA.

How does RA impact your life?

The SSA looks at every application and considers each one individually. Even if you have a debilitating medical diagnosis, it does not automatically qualify you for these benefits. You will need to be able to prove you have a valid medical condition that will last for at least 12 months or ultimately result in your death. RA is a condition that does not go away, but some people are able to manage their symptoms.

The immune system attacks your own body tissues in this autoimmune illness. It can lead to extreme pain and swelling in the joints. It can ultimately lead to joint deformation and erosion in the bone. Some of the most common symptoms of RA include:

• Fatigue, fever and swelling of the joints
• Stiffness in the joints that limits movement
• Issues with other parts of the body, such as sight problems

There are many serious conditions that can develop as a result of this specific medical condition, as well as the possibility that joints will have permanent damage and deformity will occur.

Disabled because of RA?

When your RA stands between you and your ability to continue with your employment, you may have valid grounds to seek disability benefits through the SSA. If you are unsure of where to start or you are not certain that you have a valid claim, you may want to simply seek an evaluation of your case with an experienced North Carolina attorney.

The disability benefits claims process can be quote complex, but you do not have to navigate it on your own. Whether it’s the initial application or you need to appeal a denied claim, you will find it helpful to have experienced guidance at every step.