By Chris Sharry on November 7th, 2025 in Disability, Disability Qualifying
Myasthenia gravis is a condition that happens when communication between nerves and muscles breaks down. This causes muscles to feel weak and get tired quickly. This condition may affect any of the muscles you control, called voluntary muscles. Certain muscle groups are more commonly affected than others. These include muscles in the face, throat, arms and legs.
Myasthenia gravis leads to muscle weakness that worsens throughout the day and with activity. Drooping eyelids and/or double vision are often the first sign. You may find it difficult to stand, lift objects and speak or swallow. Medications and surgery can help relieve the symptoms of this lifelong illness.
It can affect your ability to:
- Move your eyes or blink.
- Keep your eyes open.
- Make facial expressions.
- Chew, swallow and talk.
- Raise your arms up and lift objects.
- Walk upstairs or get up from a chair.
There are two types of autoimmune myasthenia gravis, wherein specific antibodies cause the condition:
Ocular myasthenia gravis: With this type of myasthenia gravis, the muscles that move the eyes and eyelids become weak, leading to droopy eyelids or difficulty keeping the eyes open. Ocular myasthenia gravis can become generalized myasthenia gravis.
Generalized myasthenia gravis: With generalized myasthenia gravis, the eye muscles, as well as the muscles in the face, neck, arms, legs, and throat, are impacted by muscle weakness. These symptoms can lead to difficulty walking long distances, standing up, and speaking or swallowing.
Social Security will evaluate your claim under Listing 11.12.11.12
Myasthenia gravis, characterized by A, B, or C despite adherence to prescribed treatment for at least 3 months:
A. Disorganization of motor function in two extremities, resulting in an extreme limitation in the ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use the upper extremities. OR
B. Bulbar and neuromuscular dysfunction, resulting in: 1. One myasthenic crisis requiring mechanical ventilation; or 2. Need for supplemental enteral nutrition via a gastrostomy or parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter. OR
C. Marked limitation in physical functioning, and in one of the following:1. Understanding, remembering, or applying information; or2. Interacting with others; or3. Concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace; or4. Adapting or managing oneself.
Proving Disability with Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis can have a profound impact on daily life, especially when symptoms are severe and persistent despite treatment. Because of its fluctuating nature, it’s important to carefully document how the condition limits your ability to function throughout the day and across different activities. Whether your symptoms align with Listing 11.12 or fall under a broader assessment of physical and cognitive limitations, success in a Social Security Disability claim depends on thorough medical documentation and evidence of functional impairment. If you or a loved one is living with myasthenia gravis and considering applying for disability benefits, Attorney Chris Sharry can help guide you through the application or appeals process. Contact our office today to schedule a case evaluation.
