Sjorgren's Syndrome

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that is characterized by dry eyes and a dry mouth. As well as having dry eyes and a dry mouth, people with Sjogren's syndrome sometimes experience prolonged fatigue, skin rashes, a persistent cough, swollen salivary glands, involuntary weight loss, malaise, and joint pain. Sjogren's syndrome may progress from causing dry eyes and dry mouth to damaging other parts of the body, such as kidneys, liver, lungs, and nerves. People with Sjogren's syndrome often have other immune system disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. However, if the disorder is aggressive, more severe symptoms may occur, including:

-Fever

-Tooth decay or loss of teeth

-Problems swallowing and/or speaking

-Swollen eyelids

-Joint pain or stiffness

-Significant weight loss

Some people with Sjogren's syndrome also develop kidney and liver problems (including cirrhosis), as well as peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness in your hands and feet). 

Most patients with Sjögren’s syndrome will work with a Rheumatologist. Be sure that your rheumatologist has documented all of the relevant information. The treatment for Sjogren’s syndrome will depend on the severity of the illness, and will mostly be aimed at controlling the symptoms.

The SSA will need to know what treatments you have received, your response to those treatments, and most importantly if your health status has worsened despite those treatments.

Be sure that your doctor has documented the following:

-Medications that you are receiving, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressant’s, pain medications, or any other related medications;

-The dose and frequency of your medications;

-Any treatments or lifestyle modifications that you have been required to make, such as using eye drops, using saliva substitutes, etc.;

-Any surgeries or procedures that you may have had, including operative notes or pathology reports, if applicable;

-Any related medical complications, such as weakness, neurological complications, heart problems, or intellectual difficulties.

I have had client’s with Sjorgren’s Syndrome, it was very painful for them. One of my clients developed very bad neck pain that made her very difficult to move side to side or up to down. The Client's Rheumaologist was very helpful in developing her restrictions. 

If you need helping applying for Social Security Disability or SSI, please contact me at joshben99@gmail.com. I have over 20 years experience with Social Security Disability cases.

Location: United States

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