Can I get disability benefits for tension headaches?

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Yes, you can get disability benefits for chronic tension headaches if they are severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months.

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The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have a specific listing just for tension headaches or migraines.

• Medical Equivalence: The SSA evaluates headaches under primary headache disorder rules, checking if your symptoms equal a similar listed impairment.

• Residual Functional Capacity (RFC): The SSA looks at your RFC to see what work you can still do. You must prove your pain, lack of concentration, and missed work make full-time employment impossible.

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