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What is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic, inflammatory disease that can affect various systems in the body, including the joints, skin, blood, and internal organs. Also called systemic lupus erythematosus, lupus is an autoimmune disease that disrupts the immune system so that the body attacks its own healthy tissues and organs.

At least 1.5 million Americans have lupus and about 16,000 new cases of lupus are diagnosed in the U.S. each year according to the Lupus Foundation of America.

People with lupus experience flare ups and remissions of the symptoms, but the underlying disease does not go away. Unfortunately, currently there is no cure for lupus.

Social Security Disability Claims for Lupus

Lupus claims are challenging because of the episodic nature of the disease and the broad range of symptoms it can cause. Symptom of lupus range from extreme fatigue to joint pain or facial rash.

In cases involving lupus, it is important to keep a log or journal of your symptoms, particularly during the flare ups of symptoms. Always document new medications you take, noting whether you continue to have symptoms despite the medication and any side effects you may experience.

In many cases, the side effects of medications such as nausea, irritability, or drowsiness can affect your ability to work and logging and reporting these side effects accurately can strengthen your case.

If you have been unfortunate enough to have experienced liver damage as a result of lupus medications, it is important to let the SSA know as you may meet medical listing 5.05 chronic liver disease or have a reduced residual functional capacity due to fatigue.