Social Security Disability for Severe Headaches

Social Security does not list headaches, but when severe, headaches are similar to grand mal seizures and can be just as disabling. 

A diagnosis of migraine headaches by a neurologist will be considered by Social Security.  If you have followed your doctor's treatment plan but continue to suffer from this disorder, you may be able to establish disability.  Why?  Most treatment efforts are designed to control the pain but are not successful at preventing the disorder.  If migraines occur while at work, eventually a person may be unemployable because they have to leave work, have to call in sick, etc.  Employers in the competitive workforce will eventually have to let a person go if they suffer from a severe migraine syndrome, despite their efforts to control the condition.

• Do you know what types of headaches you have (migraine, tension, hypertensive, rebound)?
• What is the frequency and duration of your headaches?
• Have you had a head CT scan to rule out brain tumor or other causes?
• Do you keep a log, journal, or a calendar of episodes?

Grand mal seizures are disabling when they occur more than once a month despite treatment.  Although most seizures last for only a few minutes, most people will sleep afterwards and still feel disoriented when they wake up.  Headache suffers can also have a prolonged inability to function.

Talk to a disability lawyer if you've been denied benefits for headaches or any other disabling condition. The social security disability process can be complicated, and a qualified attorney can help you get the compensation to which you're entitled.