An allergic reaction or hypersensitivity disorder results from an immune system response that is an overreaction to environmental substances. Allergens can take the form of chemicals in certain medications, particulates in the air, insect bites and stings, and certain foods. Responses may include runny nose, hives or red, itchy eyes.
However, some people are affected more dramatically and may have trouble breathing, prolonged irritations of the skin or even experience anaphylaxis (a reaction that can result in death).
Anaphylaxis Symptoms
Symptoms related to anaphylaxis (a type of hypersensitivity disorder) might include hives, a sensation of warmth, feeling a lump in the throat, airway constriction, a swollen tongue or throat, a weak and rapid pulse, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
In order to qualify for disability for allergies, the allergic responses should result in a chronic-related condition, such as dermatitis and asthma and the condition should meet the criteria set by the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) contained in their definition of the condition.
For example, applicants, who may suffer from anaphylaxis, must show that they need to work under restricted conditions, or in a safe environment, to avoid succumbing to a hypersensitive response.
Asthma
While allergies are not specified in the SSA’s bluebook listing of conditions, but they do contribute to respiratory system difficulties and contact dermatitis, both are discussed briefly among the listings. For example, allergies that lead to asthma can qualify for disability if the asthma attacks occur frequently and necessitate hospitalization. The listing requires that attacks occur at least six times each year.
Contact Dermatitis
Allergies that lead to the inflammatory skin rash of contact dermatitis must result in an allergic skin reaction that restricts movement for at least three months’ time in spite of treatment. The SSA will also review the occurrence and length of the associated flare-ups, and whether the condition can be controlled by medicines.
If the SSA does not find that an applicant’s allergies meet the criteria of a disability listing, claimants may still show that they are unable to work full-time because of the restrictions that are caused by the condition, such a physical or environmental limitations.
Our legal firm will work with you so all the necessary medical documentation is made available to the SSA. Back-up paperwork should show a history of allergen exposure, a family history of allergies, how the claimant is affected seasonally, stress-related factors and an inability to work in an environment that is not sufficiently allergen-free.
The SSA states that an impairment, such as an allergy, or a condition brought on by an allergy, should last continuously for a period of a year. Applicants who work full-time or who make over certain amount will not be considered. Therefore, it is important to talk to an SSDI (Social Security Disability Income)/SSI (Social Security Income) attorney to see where you stand. Click here to know more
