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Adults with epilepsy may be eligible for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI, for those who paid taxes into the Social Security system) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI, for low-income people). To qualify for either SSI or SSDI, epileptic seizures have to occur regularly (see below).
How much disability do you get for epilepsy?
VA Disability Ratings According to Schedular Major Seizures Minor Seizures Rating Percentage 12 or more in the past year N/A 100% 4-11 in the past year 11 or more per week 80% 3 in the past year 9-10 per week 60% 2 in the past year 5-8 per week 40%.
Is it hard to get disability for epilepsy?
Epilepsy disability claims can be somewhat difficult. This means that if the epileptic seizures are not frequent and well documented there is a very slim chance of being approved for Social Security disability benefits.
What benefits am I entitled to if I have epilepsy?
If you have been diagnosed with epilepsy and you can’t work and you expect to be unable to work for at least 12 months you can file a claim for Social Security disability benefits. Social Security disability benefits can provide money that you need to pay for things like housing, bills, food, and other expenses.
What type of seizures qualify for disability?
For others though, uncontrolled seizures wreak havoc on all aspects of life, including the ability to work and earn a living. If you suffer from uncontrolled seizures, you may be able to qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Is epilepsy classed as a hidden disability?
Epilepsy is sometimes described as a hidden disability because it is not usually obvious that someone has the condition unless they have a seizure. Whether you feel that you have a disability or not, you are protected by the Equality Act if your epilepsy affects you in this way.
Can you be fired for having seizures?
Can I be fired for having epilepsy? You cannot be fired for having epilepsy. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects the employment of a qualified individual with a disability who can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations.
How long does it take to get disability for epilepsy?
Applying for Disability Benefits for Epilepsy It will likely take three to six months for the SSA to determine whether you are eligible for disability benefits.
Can a person with seizures get disability?
If you suffer from seizures that impact your ability to work, you may be eligible to get Social Security disability.
Does epilepsy qualify for long term disability?
Your long term disability insurance company will require proof of your epilepsy diagnosis for your long term disability claim. Testing used to diagnose epilepsy and determine the cause of seizures may include: A Neurological Exam.
How many hours should a person with epilepsy sleep?
There is a significant relationship between sleep deprivation and seizures in people with epilepsy. While individual sleep needs vary, the recommended amount of sleep for children is 10 to 12 hours per day, for teenagers 9 to 10 hours, and for adults 7 to 8 hours. The majority of SUDEP cases occur during the night.
Is epilepsy a long term illness?
Epilepsy is usually a lifelong condition, but most people with it are able to have normal lives if their seizures are well controlled.
Can epileptics claim PIP?
Some people with epilepsy can claim health-related benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance, and Employment Support Allowance.
Can you live a normal life with epilepsy?
Most people with epilepsy live a full life. However, the risk of early death is higher for some. We know that the best possible seizure control and living safely can reduce the risk of epilepsy-related death.
Does epilepsy qualify for FMLA?
An employee with epilepsy who needs continuing or intermittent leave, or a part-time or modified schedule, as a reasonable accommodation also may be entitled to leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Should I tell my employer I have epilepsy?
Despite some of the drawbacks, don’t be afraid to tell your employers about your epilepsy. The way you communicate it to them might make a huge difference in how they respond to the information. You should also let them know specifics like if you can drive or not or if you need to avoid certain jobs or activities.
What conditions automatically qualify you for disability?
Some conditions that automatically qualify you for disability include: Advanced stages of cancer. ALS. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Organ transplantation. Parkinson’s. Serious heart conditions. Spinal cord injuries.
What’s the worst type of seizure?
A grand mal seizure causes a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. It’s the type of seizure most people picture when they think about seizures. A grand mal seizure — also known as a generalized tonic-clonic seizure — is caused by abnormal electrical activity throughout the brain.
What foods are bad for epilepsy?
Stimulants such as tea, coffee, chocolate, sugar, sweets, soft drinks, excess salt, spices and animal proteins may trigger seizures by suddenly changing the body’s metabolism. Some parents have reported that allergic reactions to certain foods (e.g. white flour) also seem to trigger seizures in their children.
Why are people with epilepsy so tired?
When you have epilepsy, you are more likely to be affected by fatigue than other people. Having disrupted sleep, because of seizures or the effect of epilepsy medicines, makes fatigue more likely.
Can I work nights with epilepsy?
People with epilepsy may need to avoid working night shifts as the significant loss or disruption to sleep can trigger seizures. If you are affected by insomnia or another sleep disorder, ask your doctor for advice because improved sleep could make a difference to seizure control.
What is the average lifespan of someone with epilepsy?
Reduction in life expectancy can be up to 2 years for people with a diagnosis of idiopathic/cryptogenic epilepsy, and the reduction can be up to 10 years in people with symptomatic epilepsy. Reductions in life expectancy are highest at the time of diagnosis and diminish with time.
Does epilepsy affect memory?
The epilepsy may cause difficulties with being able to store memories. Research has shown that people with epilepsy are prone to forget things more quickly than others.
Does epilepsy worsen with age?
Other factors that can affect your overall prognosis include: Age: Adults over the age of 60 may experience an increased risk for epileptic seizures, as well as related complications.
Can you get a blue badge for epilepsy?
New rules have widened Blue Badge eligibility criteria to help people with Parkinson’s, dementia, epilepsy and other ‘invisible’ disabilities.
