In order to qualify for benefits, you must have a medically determinable impairment that is “severe” or a combination of impairments that is “severe.” An impairment or combination of impairments is “severe” if it  significantly limits an individual’s ability to perform basic work activities. The mere presence of an “impairment” does not necessarily mean it is “severe.” For example, chronic high blood pressure which is controlled by medication is not severe.