Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS), also known as Hughes Syndrome, is an autoimmune clotting disorder that can cause serious health complications, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), strokes, miscarriages, and organ damage. For individuals with severe APS symptoms, maintaining regular employment may be impossible. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits for those who meet its medical and financial criteria.
In this article, we’ll cover the basics of APS, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and what you need to know to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with this condition.
What Is Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome?
APS is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that attack phospholipids, which are essential for proper blood clotting. These antibodies increase the risk of blood clots forming in veins and arteries, leading to life-threatening conditions such as:
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Pulmonary embolism (PE)
Strokes and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)
Repeated miscarriages or pregnancy complications
Heart attacks
Kidney damage
Livedo reticularis (a lace-like skin rash)
APS may occur on its own (primary APS) or with other autoimmune disorders, most commonly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Diagnosing APS
To be diagnosed with APS, a person must meet both clinical and laboratory criteria. A doctor will typically:
Review medical history and symptoms, especially if there’s a history of blood clots or pregnancy loss.
Order blood tests to detect the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies, such as:
Lupus anticoagulant
Anticardiolipin antibodies
Anti-beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies
These antibodies must be present in two separate tests at least 12 weeks apart to confirm diagnosis. Imaging studies may also be used to detect clots or tissue damage caused by APS.
Common Symptoms of APS
APS symptoms vary widely from person to person. Some people may only experience one or two blood clots, while others may develop chronic or life-threatening complications. Common symptoms include:
Swelling and pain in the legs from DVT
Shortness of breath and chest pain from PE
Stroke symptoms like slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body
Chronic fatigue
Headaches or migraines
Memory issues or cognitive impairment
Skin changes like rashes or ulcers
Recurrent miscarriages or preterm birth
Severe APS can lead to a condition known as catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS), where multiple organs are affected by widespread clotting.
Treating Antiphospholipid Syndrome
There is no cure for APS, but treatment focuses on preventing new blood clots and managing symptoms. Standard treatment includes:
Blood thinners (anticoagulants): Warfarin or heparin is commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of clotting.
Low-dose aspirin: Often recommended for patients with milder symptoms or those trying to conceive.
Immunosuppressive medications: These may be used if APS occurs alongside lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
Lifestyle modifications: Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding estrogen-based medications are essential for managing APS.
Despite treatment, some individuals may continue to experience recurrent clots or serious complications, which can interfere with work and daily life.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability with APS
The SSA does not list APS in its official Listing of Impairments (also known as the Blue Book), but that doesn’t mean you can’t qualify for benefits. To be approved for SSDI or SSI, you must prove that your condition:
Is medically determinable through objective evidence like lab results and imaging,
Prevents you from working full-time for at least 12 months, and
Is severe enough to meet a listing or prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
APS may qualify under listings related to:
Vascular system disorders (Listing 4.11): If APS causes blood clots or venous insufficiency with repeated complications.
Neurological disorders (Listing 11.04): For stroke-related symptoms like paralysis or cognitive impairment.
Immune system disorders (Listing 14.06): If APS is secondary to lupus.
Even if your condition doesn’t meet a specific listing, you can still be approved based on a residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment. The SSA will evaluate how your symptoms limit your ability to perform physical or mental work activities. Fatigue, medication side effects, stroke symptoms, or repeated hospitalizations can all be factored into your RFC.
Let Us Help
Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome can be a disabling condition for many people, especially those with severe or recurrent blood clots, neurological complications, or other organ damage. If APS prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. Because the process is complex, working with an experienced disability attorney can improve your chances of getting approved.
If you’ve been denied benefits or need help filing your claim, contact our office today for a free consultation. We are located in Raleigh NC and we represent clients all over North Carolina. We’re here to fight for the benefits you deserve.
