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long term disability for Sjogrens

Posted , 8 users are following.

bridget1970
bridget1970

I’ve had multiple medical issues regarding my Sjogrens. I’ve been out on a leave for 3 months. I don’t foresee being able to go back anytime soon. Has anyone had any experience with long term disability? I saw it was listed as a disability, but I’m wondering if anyone has experience good/bad about the process. Thanks!

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • bridget1970
    bridget1970

    Posted

    Hi Lorigirl

    https://www.disability-benefits-help.org/disabling-conditions/sjogrens-syndrome 

    Look at this link above. It looks like it’s covered. But was looking for first hand experience. I’m a Director and am responsible for running a hospital. I’ve been diagnosed for 3 years. These last 4 months has been horrible. I don’t feel I’m as sharp as I was. I can’t walk up stairs and have terrible peripheral neuropathy. I’m trying to decide if I’m going to step down to a less stressful position. But the more I think about it, I don’t think I can even do a less stressful position. I know this disease is chronic and has ups and downs, but the downs are soooo low. I can not do well at a job if I’m calling out all the time, even if it’s covered under FMLA.  I have long term disability insurance as am thinking I might do that. I’m so conflicted 😩😩

  • NicAlexa
    NicAlexa bridget1970

    Posted

    I was lucky enough to get disability within 7 months of being diagnosed and found out 7 years later it was for depression. I would say to try to work because SSD limits your capacity to do anything and they can take it at anytime.
  • olive8
    olive8 bridget1970

    Posted

    My doctor told me vaginal atrophy with urinal issues like constant feeling of UTI after menopause causes dryness and stinging  I am being treated with estriol cream and it has helped but not nearly cured. I have a feeling of a constant UTI and try all sorts of cream to help with dryness. 

    I recently had my eyes tested and was told I had the start of macular degeneration but I am not convinced because I can read all the letters. I have been referred to eye clinic just waiting for appointment.  I have hypothyroidism and take thyroxine and sometimes my mouth is so dry I have to be careful taking the tablets because at times have found one on the floor having fallen off my dry tongue. I also take amitriptyline 25mg only and it also causes a dry mouth.  What next.  Can anyone tell me round about what age does Sjögren's syndrome start. My voice is also croaky in the morning but put it down to hypothyroidism. 

    • shaq26875
      shaq26875 olive8

      Posted

      Hi olive . I don't think there is an age where SS could start. Many on this forum have had  in since their thirties. (I was diagnosed in my early 60s but I think it have had a lot longer than that) 

      ?I have told by ophthalmologist that I have AMD in one of my eyes. Fortunately it hasn't progressed.  I can read all the letters at the eye test, however, when I shut my good eye and read only with the AMD eye I notice a tiny grey spot in the centre of my vision. My voice is croaky off and on for no reason.

      I was diagnosed with SS 3 years ago. I don't know if 2 are related I am going to get an appointment with ENT guy. Perhaps you see a rheumatologist also. 

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