Migraines are known for being the worst of headaches, but a migraine is more than an aching head. Migraines are caused by a neurological disorder and are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, eye pain, and hypersensitivity to light, sound, and/or smell.

Migraines differ from person to person. Some people have infrequent, mild migraines that last for four or five hours. Others have debilitating pain that lasts up to 72 hours or even longer. For these people, doing anything other than staying in bed in a dark room is impossible.

There are medications that can treat or prevent migraine attacks, but they are not always effective, and many drugs have side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness.

If you suffer from frequent and severe migraines, you may find it hard to work and to keep a job. Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) may be an option.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have a disability listing for migraines. In order for the SSA to consider your application for SSDI, you will have to show the following:

• Your migraines limit your ability to perform basic work tasks and engage in other life activities. You must show you have significant limitations that affect your ability to concentrate, understand instructions, interact with others, or perform physical activities such as walking, standing, or carrying.
• You must show that you are unable to do the kind of work that you have been doing and that you cannot do another type of work.
• You must have medical evidence of your migraines. Your medical records must contain a diagnosis, and they must show that you continue to have severe symptoms despite following your treatment plan.
• You must show that you have tried several different types of treatments.

You can apply for SSDI online at www.ssa.gov, or we can file an application for you in our office.  It will take 3-4 months for an initial decision to be made. Social Security often denies claims that have merit, so don't give up. It is important to provide adequate evidence of your disability and the impact it has on your ability to attend work.

If your claim for SSDI for migraines is denied, don’t give up hope. You may still qualify. Our Virginia disability benefits lawyers can help you file an appeal.

Talk to a Virginia Social Security Disability Attorney

The lawyers from Kalfus & Nachman know what it takes to get you approved for Social Security Disability Insurance and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits. We can file your initial claim, attempt to get it marked for the Compassionate Allowance program, and file an appeal, if necessary.

We may also be able to pursue additional compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim on your behalf. If your injuries and impairments occurred because of an accident, let us review the case and determine if we can pursue compensation for your injuries.

Whether you’re preparing your first SSDI application, submitting your claim for Reconsideration or appealing a rejected claim, you have a greater chance of success with the help of a knowledgeable lawyer.

If you live in the Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach or Roanoke, Virginia, areas and need assistance filing your SSDI application or making an appeal, please contact Kalfus & Nachman PC by phone at (855) 880-8163 or through the form on this page to schedule a free consultation.