Vertigo is a condition that causes dizziness, balance issues and a sensation of spinning or movement, even when standing still. While occasional dizziness may not be disabling, chronic vertigo can severely impact a person’s ability to work and perform daily activities.
For individuals experiencing persistent and debilitating vertigo, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits may be available. However, proving that vertigo qualifies as a disability requires medical evidence and documentation of how it affects one’s ability to work.
Eligibility and proving one’s claim
To be considered a disability under the Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines, vertigo must significantly limit a person’s ability to function in a work environment. The SSA evaluates vertigo under Listing 2.07: Disturbance of Labyrinthine-Vestibular Function, which covers disorders affecting balance and coordination. To meet this listing, an applicant must show:
- A medically documented history of recurrent disturbances in balance, including vertigo, tinnitus and progressive hearing loss.
- Abnormal findings from a physical exam or medical testing, such as caloric tests, rotary chair tests or vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP).
- Difficulty with coordination and walking due to balance issues.
If an applicant does not meet this listing but still experiences severe functional limitations due to vertigo, they may qualify under a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) evaluation. This assessment considers how vertigo affects a person’s ability to work, including their ability to stand, walk, concentrate and complete tasks safely.
To increase the chances of a successful disability claim, applicants should provide:
- Comprehensive medical records documenting a history of vertigo, including frequency and severity.
- Doctor’s statements detailing how vertigo limits physical and cognitive abilities.
- Results of diagnostic tests confirming vestibular dysfunction.
- Work history and functional limitations showing an inability to maintain employment due to dizziness, falls, or cognitive impairment.
The SSA may deny claims if its claims professionals believe that an applicant’s symptoms are not severe enough or if medical evidence is insufficient. Seeking legal guidance proactively can help applicants to manage their circumstances as effectively as possible.