People sometimes write romantically about hearts, especially around Valentine’s Day. The rest of the year, it’s the workhorse of the body. Obviously, we can’t live without this important muscle. But what about when the heart is just weak? Can a heart condition keep you from working and living your life as you have in the past? In this blog, we will explore the ways that a heart condition might be considered a disability aid how Social Security Disability Insurance benefits might help.
Common Heart Conditions
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.
Four of the most common heart conditions are:
- Arteriosclerosis. Sometimes called hardening of the arteries, this disease happens when substances build up in the walls of the body’s arteries. Someone with arteriosclerosis may have a heart attack, stroke, or other serious heart conditions.
- Coronary Artery Disease. When arteriosclerosis restricts blood directly to the heart, it’s called coronary artery disease.
- Congestive Heart Failure. This happens when the heart can’t pump enough blood through the body.
- Aneurysm. This is a bulge caused in the wall of a blood vessel. Aneurysms may burst, which often is fatal.
Just having a heart condition does not mean you are disabled. Many people live for years with proper treatment. However, it is possible for a person to be classified as disabled due to a serious heart condition.
Heart Condition as a Disability
The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. As SSA caseworkers assess SSDI applications, they may look for the following medical proof of disability:
- Sufficiently detailed records showing diagnoses, examinations, test results, lab studies, and courses of treatment.
- A 3-month period of observation and treatment may be required.
- A longitudinal clinical record.
- Proof that the heart condition meets the SSA’s definition of disability.
If you find yourself unable to work because of a heart problem, look into SSDI benefits.
A Disability Attorney Can Help Every Step of the Way.
Yes, it is possible that a heart condition may keep you from working. If so, you may qualify for disability benefits like SSDI.
For a free consultation with an experienced Social Security attorney, consult with an attorney at The Law Offices of Martin Taller. Call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients through Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
