August Marks Psoriasis Awareness Month
Living with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis can be a challenging journey for those who suffer from these chronic autoimmune diseases. In fact, more than 8 million people in the country have psoriasis, and about one-third of them will develop psoriatic arthritis leading to swelling, pain, fatigue and joint stiffness.
Every August, organizations such as the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) and LiVDerm come together in support of Psoriasis Awareness Month. The NPF goes a step further by declaring August as Psoriasis Action Month, to raise funds and build awareness for these conditions.
Researchers have yet to find a cure for psoriasis, which results from an over-reactive immune system that creates inflammation. The Cleveland Clinic explains that when you have psoriasis, your immune system mistakenly identifies healthy cells for foreign invaders causing swelling or inflammation. This results in scaly skin plaques, rashes or cracked, itchy skin on various parts of the body.
Psoriasis may also be associated with other health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and depression. While psoriasis is not contagious, it can be triggered by emotional stress, infections or certain medications according to the Cleveland Clinic. It also appears to be hereditary, suggesting genetics may play a role.
Psoriatic arthritis presents a chronic, inflammatory disease of the joints and the areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bone. Healthcare professionals recommend early treatment to reduce long-term damage of the joints.
Managing the pain and limitations of psoriatic disease, which includes both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, can affect the quality of life and often make it challenging for sufferers to continue working.
For more than 39 years, Allsup has helped people who endure these and other chronic diseases to obtain Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits when they can no longer work. These benefits include monthly income, Medicare coverage and an opportunity to return to work through Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program.
The wait for SSDI approval can be several months even with Allsup’s 56% approval rate compared to the national average approval rate of 38%. Allsup’s newest offering, Disability Financial SolutionsSM, can help bridge the gap by providing valuable financial resources for debt relief, household expenses, health insurance and more.
To learn more about Psoriasis Action Month and how to participate, visit the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Help with SSDI Claims and Appeals
For more information about Social Security disability eligibility, applying for SSDI benefits or filing your appeal if you were denied, visit https://www.allsup.com/a-better-way-to-apply-for-ssdi?csc=AllsupPR r call 1-800-678-3276.