What this listing covers
Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that disrupts the communication between your nerves and muscles. This breakdown leads to fluctuating weakness in your voluntary muscles, which often worsens after activity and improves with rest.
In your daily life, this condition can make simple tasks like chewing, swallowing, or speaking difficult. It often causes extreme fatigue and muscle weakness that prevents you from sustaining physical work, such as lifting, reaching, or standing for extended periods.
How SSA evaluates a claim under this listing
Under Listing 11.12, the SSA evaluates your condition based on how it impacts your motor function or your ability to breathe and swallow. They look for evidence that your symptoms persist for at least three months despite you following your doctor's prescribed treatment plan.
The SSA requires documentation of extreme limitations in moving your extremities, or evidence of severe bulbar dysfunction. This includes instances where you require mechanical ventilation during a crisis or need supplemental nutrition through a feeding tube because your muscles can no longer support basic life functions.
Evidence that strengthens a claim
Your claim is strengthened by comprehensive medical records that detail your diagnosis and your response to prescribed medications. The SSA needs to see clinical examination findings that document the severity of your muscle weakness and how it interferes with your ability to perform work-related tasks.
Non-medical evidence is also vital, including statements from your doctors about your physical limitations and reports from family members regarding your daily struggles. Records showing your adherence to treatment for at least three months are essential to proving that your condition remains disabling despite medical intervention.
How an attorney helps
A disability attorney can help you by ensuring your medical records clearly map to the specific criteria in Listing 11.12. They can help gather functional capacity statements from your doctors that explain exactly why your muscle weakness prevents you from sustaining a full-time job. If your initial application is not approved, an attorney can guide you through the appeals process and represent you at a hearing before an ALJ.
Frequently asked questions
No condition is automatically approved. The SSA evaluates your claim based on whether your medical records meet the specific severity thresholds in Listing 11.12. An attorney can review your medical history to see if your documentation aligns with what the SSA requires.
The SSA looks for clinical evidence of muscle weakness that persists despite at least three months of prescribed treatment. This includes doctor notes, records of hospitalizations for myasthenic crises, and evidence of nutritional or breathing support. A disability attorney can help you organize these records to build a stronger case.
Bulbar dysfunction refers to weakness in the muscles of your throat, tongue, and face. The SSA looks for evidence that this weakness causes significant issues with breathing, swallowing, or speaking. If your condition has led to a crisis requiring mechanical ventilation or a feeding tube, this is critical evidence for your claim.
A denial is not the end of your claim. You have the right to request reconsideration, and if that is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. There are strict deadlines for these appeals, so speaking with a disability attorney as soon as possible can help you protect your rights.
