What if your rheumatoid arthritis keeps you from working?

North Carolina readers know that certain medical conditions could keep them from working, which means they could qualify for disability benefits. However, it is beneficial to remember that this is also the case for individuals who are suffering from internal conditions with few outside symptoms or non-fatal, but serious, medical conditions.

One medical condition that could greatly impact your ability to work and earn a living is rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis is a rather common medical condition, but RA is a particularly severe and painful disorder that could negatively impact multiple areas of your life. If you are a victim of this condition, you may find it beneficial to explore your potential right to disability benefits.

How will this condition impact your life?

RA is a specific type of inflammatory disorder that affects the joints. It can be painful and cause a person to experience limited physical abilities and more. Some of the defining characteristics include the following:

• Swollen and painful joints
• Stiffness that gets worse after inactivity
• Weight loss, extreme fatigue and fever

This is an autoimmune disorder that actually impacts the tissues that surround the joints. Over time, the continued swelling and inflammation can lead to bone erosion and other problems. However, the joints are not the only parts of the body that can be affected by this medical disorder. Individuals who suffer from this may experience issues in the following parts of the body:

• Skin
• Eyes
• Internal organs
• Blood vessels
• Nerve endings

The discomfort, continued pain, prolonged periods of fatigue and limited range of motion could make it impossible for you to work with this type of medical condition. If you have RA, it could mean that you also have a valid claim to disability benefits through the Social Security Administration.

How do you get the benefits you need?

If you believe you have a rightful claim to disability benefits, you would be wise not to walk through the application process alone. This process can be lengthy, complex, confusing, and many first-time claims come back denied. You have the right to assistance from the very beginning stages of your claim.

As a person who is suffering from the impact of RA, you may find it beneficial to seek legal guidance regarding your right to disability benefits and how to navigate your claim. This explanation of your entitlements can be helpful as you pursue the financial support you deserve through the appropriate channels.