Your child has suffered from chronic eczema since he was an infant. Treatment has been costly and you miss work whenever there is a doctor's appointment or a bad flare-up, which is becoming more and more frequent. You know there are better treatment options, but you can’t afford them. You are in real danger of losing your job. Where can you turn for help?
If the skin condition is severe enough, you may be able to qualify for child disability benefits.
Skin Condition Severity: Hardships That Could Warrant Disability
Considering that the National Eczema Association estimates that one out of every three children with dermatitis will have a moderate to severe disease, it’s not surprising that the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes certain childhood skin conditions for disability aid. However, their decision will be based on the severity of the condition and the financial hardship suffered by the family because of it. Generally, the SSA determines disability based on the lost income a person suffers as a result of his inability to work. However, as this basis for determination can’t be used when it comes to child disability, it takes the following factors into account when determining eligibility:
- Pain. Inflammation, lesions, and skin regeneration can cause sensitivity, burning sensations, and painful bleeding or fluid discharge.
- Sleep loss. Excessive itching and burning can disrupt sleep patterns.
- Infection. Lesions may burst; scratching can introduce bacteria into sores; dead skin cells can clog healthy pores, etc.
- Psychological issues. The appearance and annoyance of dermatitis can cause a host of psychological issues, such as:
- Embarrassment: afraid that others may see the patches and get disgusted.
- Anxiety: worried it’ll never go away; afraid it may get worse
- Frustration: constant scratching without relief
- Social disorders. Embarrassment can cause social withdrawal; frustration can cause temper issues, long-term suffering can cause a child to lose interest in playing or even going outside.
- Financial loss. Continuous skin care treatments for recurring conditions can become extremely pricey. In addition to doctor’s visits, psychological treatment costs, missed work days, and medication can also drain your finances.
Rash Decisions or Calculated Approval: You Decide
Do you think skin disorders that affect children, such as eczema and dermatitis, should get disability? Let us know your thoughts by leaving your opinions and questions in the comment section provided. Not only will you help us learn more about societal opinions, but your experiences could also help our clients get the extra knowledge, reassurance, and support they need when deciding to file for their child’s future.
Know someone who is having a rough time getting their child’s disability claim benefits? Please, feel free to share this page with them. It’s our job to use our extensive knowledge and experience to help our clients get the support and justice they need.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 508.283.5500 to schedule your free consultation.
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