When thinking about disabilities, it’s unlikely that allergic contact dermatitis will come to mind. However, skin conditions might affect every aspect of a person’s life. Depending on their job, they may find it difficult or impossible to perform their job duties as expected. In this article, we will look at one common skin condition and how it might qualify for disability benefits.
Quick Facts About Allergic Contact Dermatitis
To understand whether allergic contact dermatitis can be disabling, we need to understand more about the condition. According to the American Contact Dermatitis Association, this type of skin disorder is:
- A rash that appears when skin comes into contact with an allergen
- Caused when an allergen creates an immune response in your body
- A condition that can develop over time
- Sometimes difficult to diagnose
The best way to stop allergic contact dermatitis is to avoid whatever caused the allergic reaction. Common causes include:
- Fertilizers and pesticides
- Plants
- Solvents and Other Chemicals
- Rubbing alcohol
- Bleach and detergents
- Shampoos, permanent wave solutions
- Airborne substances
Some of these substances are also commonly found in workplace environments. People who come into contact with them may develop dermatitis. Not only that, but dermatitis may interfere with their ability to work. If so, then it may be time to apply for disability benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Social Security Disability Criteria
After you apply for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (“Social Security”) reviews your application. Specifically, they look for proof that:
- You have allergic contact dermatitis.
- Your condition is so severe that you cannot work because of it.
Social Security personnel refer back to the Listing of Impairments (the “Listing”) when assessing your physical condition. The Listing is a massive list of physical and psychological conditions split up into categories. Section 8.00 contains information about adult skin disorders, including those caused by “hereditary, congenital, or acquired pathological processes.”
To assess your condition, Social Security examiners will review the severity of your condition and whether treatment is working. Specifically, they will look for:
- Extensive skin lesions
- Frequency of flare-ups
- Symptoms
- Treatment
Generally, your allergic contact dermatitis must last for at least three months, even though you are receiving treatments.
Does Your Allergic Contact Dermatitis Prevent You from Working?
Don’t wait for an unnecessary amount of time to get your disability payments started. Talk to a lawyer as soon as you learn that you can no longer work.
At The Law Offices of Martin Taller, your case gets the attention and care of experienced Social Security Disability attorneys. Call us at 714-385-8100 to set up a free consultation. Though our office is conveniently located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
