Chronic Migraines And Disability Benefits

If you suffer from chronic migraines, you already know that it is more than “just a headache.” Chronic migraines can be debilitating and make it nearly impossible to work. With symptoms such as light sensitivity, nausea and intense pain, it is easy to see how chronic migraines may interfere with your daily work.

Fortunately, you may be able to qualify for disability benefits to help you financially when you cannot work due to your migraines.

Chronic migraines and qualifying for benefits

According to Healthline.com, the occasional migraine attack is usually not disruptive enough to receive disability benefits. However, if you experience any of the following situations, you may qualify for Social Security Disability:

• You have chronic migraines that will last for at least the next year

• You cannot perform your usual work due to your migraines

• You cannot adjust to a different type of work

• You have worked enough hours, based on your age, to qualify for benefits

Gather documents supporting your condition

If you are considering applying for disability benefits because of your condition, you should gather all your medical history that supports your condition. The Social Security Administration will want to know which doctors you have seen, what medications you are on and how long you have suffered from chronic migraines.

It is important to include any information regarding your symptoms. This can include how long the attacks last and your general level of functioning during an attack. If the attacks become more frequent, this is good to note as well.

A visit to a neurologist can also help determine if your migraines are due to an underlying condition, which may be automatically eligible for disability benefits.