Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome May Qualify You for Disability Benefits

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a chronic disorder characterized by recurring episodes of severe nausea and vomiting, interspersed with symptom-free periods.

Attacks typically start suddenly, often at the same time of day (frequently in the early morning). Episodes can last from a few hours to several days. The length and intensity of the episodes are often similar for each individual.

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome can potentially qualify an individual for Social Security Disability benefits, but it depends on the severity and impact of the condition on the individual’s ability to work.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates the severity of a condition by examining its impact on a person’s ability to perform basic work activities. If you have CVS which prevents you from being able to sustain competitive work, you may be eligible for financial assistance through one of the Social Security Disability programs.

There are two disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance, which is known as SSDI, and Supplemental Security Income, commonly referred to as SSI.

SSDI pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you have a qualifying impairment, and you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes recently enough.

SSI, on the other hand, is based on financial need. The SSA says, “It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income.”

To determine if you are medically eligible for disability benefits, Social Security has a set of procedures in place. These procedures are published in a handbook known as the “Blue Book,” and it includes a list of various disabling conditions known as “listings.” There is no specific listing for CVS in the Blue Book.

However, there is another way to qualify: prove that the symptoms of your impairment(s) prevent you from sustaining full-time competitive employment on a consistent and reliable basis.

The unpredictable nature of CVS episodes can make it challenging for individuals to maintain consistent employment. And very few employers are likely to make workplace accommodations for individuals with this syndrome.

To prove that CVS prevents you from maintaining full-time employment, you must start with a diagnosis through a doctor’s exam. But a diagnosis alone is not enough to qualify you for benefits.

Your doctor should also explain how your medical conditions limit your ability to work. This is usually done using a form called the “Residual Functional Capacity” (RFC) form.

The RFC form is separate from the medical records and helps your doctor explain your limitations. To decide whether you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, the Social Security Administration will consider the RFC form along with other medical evidence.

All qualifying disabilities must be expected to last and keep you out of work for at least 12 months.

If you have other impairments in addition to CVS, you should also include these in your application for benefits. People with cyclic vomiting syndrome may have other health problems, including:

• Migraines
• Anxiety 
• Depression 
• Gastroparesis
• Autonomic nervous system disorders 
• High blood pressure
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome

You should also keep a disability journal when applying for disability benefits based on CVS. Your journal should detail the dates of your attacks, how long they last, and the details of each attack. You should show your journal to your doctor at each visit, so your symptoms are well-documented.

If you have CVS or another disabling injury or illness and your condition has made it impossible for you to sustain full-time employment on a regular and consistent basis, contact us at Nash Disability Law for a free evaluation of your situation.

Our Chicago disability lawyers can help you navigate the complex SSA disability claims process and guide you on the best path forward. We only get paid when you win your case.