Anyone who’s ever suffered from migraines or watched a loved one deal with them knows how incapacitating they can be. For some people, they occur periodically. For others, they’re chronic — to the point where they interfere with their daily lives.
Since chronic migraines aren’t a visible disability, those who don’t understand them may minimize their affect on people’s ability to work or focus on anything. Some people even consider them a “women’s problem.” While women are more likely to suffer from migraines than men due to hormonal changes throughout their lives, men can get them as well.
Migraines can cause pain on one side or on both sides of a person’s head. Sometimes, migraines appear in clusters. Beyond that localized pain, they can cause dizziness, vision problems, nausea, vomiting, mood changes and more.
Migraine triggers
Those who suffer from migraines learn to avoid things that can trigger one for them. These include:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Light
- Certain sounds or smells
- Dehydration
- Hunger
- Lack of sleep
- Exercise
Also, as we noted, hormonal changes (specifically related to estrogen) can cause them in women. However, you can avoid all of your triggers and still suffer from migraines.
How do you present your case for SSDI?
If chronic migraines are preventing you from working – or being able to hold down a full-time job – you may be able to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). With a condition like this, it’s essential for you and your doctor to work together to provide enough specific evidence of the incapacitating nature of your condition and what is being done to treat it.
If you’re having difficulty getting your disability claim approved, it may be wise to consult an experienced attorney. They can help you appeal a claim denial and work to get the compensation you need.