Sarcoidosis of the Eyes: What You Need to Know About Your Right to Social Security Disability Benefits

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that may affect multiple parts of the body. Both the cause and the cure for this medical condition remain unknown. However, researchers believe that sarcoidosis is an immune system condition. Medications and organ transplant surgeries may be used to treat the symptoms of sarcoidosis.

What Happens When Sarcoidosis Reaches the Eyes

Sarcoidosis may begin affecting your eyes before you experience any symptoms. Thus, it is important to have your eyes checked regularly and to make sure that you mention a diagnosis of sarcoidosis to your ophthalmologist.

When symptoms of ocular sarcoidosis do occur, the Mayo Clinic reports that the following symptoms may be experienced:

• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Significant redness in the eye(s)
• Sensitivity to light

These symptoms can make it very difficult to work. You may be unable to use a computer, wait on customers, or do manual labor, for example, if you are having trouble with your eyes.

Social Security Disability May Be an Option for You

While the Social Security Administration does not have a specific listing for ocular sarcoidosis, you may qualify for benefits if:

• You have a vision problem that qualifies you for Social Security disability benefits. Vision problems are described in Section 2.00 of the Listing of Impairments. If the effects of your ocular sarcoidosis meet any of the specific listings in this section, you will qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
• Your sarcoidosis affects other body parts and you qualify for Social Security disability. Your eyes may not be your only body part impacted by sarcoidosis. While there is no specific listing for sarcoidosis in the Listing of Impairments, the effect of sarcoidosis on your body may make you eligible under a specific listing for the body part that is significantly impacted by your medical condition.
• You lack the residual functional capacity to work. Even if you do not meet any of the listings in the Listing of Impairments, you may still qualify for Social Security disability benefits if you can prove that you are unable to work because of your ocular sarcoidosis.

However you qualify for benefits, one thing is certain. You are going to have to file a convincing and complete application in order to get the benefits you deserve. For more information about protecting your rights and getting the fair benefits you deserve, please contact one of our board certified Social Security disability lawyers today.

by Paul B. Burkhalter
Managing Partner of Morgan & Weisbrod, Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.

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