It can be difficult to get disability benefits. However, if your condition prevents you working, you should apply. The Social Security Administration offers SSDI and SSI to people with a disability that interferes with their ability to work.
It can take months for your application to be approved by the SSA. You should prepare and present medical evidence to support your case.
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs) are the most common source of pain and disability worldwide. They are a significant burden on individuals and society, with yearly costs to the U.S. alone totaling $874 billion – 5.7% of the annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
MSKDs are defined as diseases and conditions that affect muscles, bones, joints and adjacent connective tissues that limit mobility and dexterity, leading to temporary or permanent limitations in functioning and participation. They are often caused by an underlying injury, illness, or other condition. They often cause chronic pain, loss in function, and a decrease in quality of life.
According to the CDC, almost 130 million people see a doctor each year for musculoskeletal issues. Many of these diagnoses may be eligible for disability benefits. Musculoskeletal disorders that are most common include arthritis, back and neck injuries.
Arthritis, the most common musculoskeletal condition that is approved for disability payments, is the main reason why the majority of those who receive disability benefits are suffering from it. This disorder causes inflammation of your synovial fluid, which damages your joints over time causing severe pain and deformity.
Rheumatoid is a serious condition that can lead to your joints breaking down. Your doctor might recommend physical therapy or medication to treat the condition.
Most arthritis patients will be diagnosed by a physician after a physical examination. Your doctor will look for symptoms such as joint stiffness, swelling and dull aches. He or she will also check your reflexes and order imaging tests if necessary to determine the root of your pain.
Your doctor will then prescribe a number of medications to treat your condition. Some of these medications are anti-inflammatory drugs. Others will be steroid medications to reduce inflammation and swelling in your joints.
These drugs are very effective in controlling the disease, reducing your disability and pain. They can also help you stay productive and active, which will reduce your health care costs.
Managing your disease will involve consulting with a doctor and participating in self-management education programs. These programs will help you to reduce your arthritis symptoms and improve the quality of your life. Some of these programs include weight management and exercises.
Mental Disorders
Mental disorders encompass a wide range mental and emotional conditions that can affect people of all ages. While symptoms can vary from person-to-person, they all stemming from an abnormality in brain function.
A diagnosis of a mental disorder refers to a medical condition that requires professional treatment. This usually involves a combination psychotherapy and medication.
There are many types of mental disorders. They can all be treated using a variety of different methods. The best treatment is one that is tailored to the individual, and will take into account the severity of the symptoms, the underlying causes and other factors.
The most common mental disorders are depressive illness (major depression, bipolar disorder, and dysthymia) and anxiety disorder. Anxiety can be a serious condition that causes people worry excessively and makes them avoid places or activities that make them feel anxious. Other types of anxiety include panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Anxiety disorders affect around 18% of Americans. People with severe anxiety have difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
Most anxiety disorders can be treated with anti-anxiety drugs, and some people will need to stay in a hospital for an intensive program of treatment. Therapy and social support are also options for anxiety disorders.
Some people with mental health disorders can’t work, so they need disability benefits. These benefits are available through the Supplemental Security income program.
The most approved disability under the SSI program is for people with severe mental illness. Mental illness is considered a disability by the SSA if it makes it impossible for the person to work in their usual or traditional occupation and they are unable to be trained to do any other job.
People with mental disorders are usually eligible for SSI benefits, but they should have the condition diagnosed by a doctor before applying for disability. The mental disorder must also be expected to last a long time.
A doctor will conduct a physical exam and review the medical history of a patient. They will also ask questions about the person’s daily life and how their symptoms affect them.
Cancer
Cancer is a grouping of diseases where abnormal cells multiply in a manner that damages and eventually kills nearby healthy tissue. It is the second leading cause to death in the US after heart disease.
Although the cause of cancer is still not fully understood, it could be linked to lifestyle choices and genes passed on from your parents. However, a major factor is that the cancer develops as a series of changes in DNA called mutations. These changes occur in a multistep process that takes years to occur.
During this time, cancer cells grow rapidly and divide quickly without the normal limits that are found in healthy cells. They can also hide from immune system, which normally destroys or removes cancerous cell.
Cancer is dangerous because it allows cancer cells to survive without being restrained. The cancerous cells may also have a genetic defect that allows them spread throughout the body. This process is called metastasis.
Although treatment for cancer is intended to kill the cancerous cells or tumors, it can also cause side effects and complications. These include nausea and vomiting, bowel problems, tiredness, hair loss, and changes to nerves and muscles.
Symptoms of cancer vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the type of treatment being used. Early stage cancers don’t usually cause any symptoms or pain. Later stage cancers often cause severe symptoms that can lead to death.
The most common forms of cancer are lung and breast cancers. Other types are melanoma, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer.
While some types of cancer are more aggressive than others, they all have similar causes and treatments. Some cancers are better treated with surgery, while others respond to drug therapy.
In some cases, doctors may recommend several treatments to ensure the best possible outcome for patients. For example, some people with melanoma may have radiation therapy and chemotherapy to kill the cancer cells. Others may need chemotherapy and surgery to remove the tumor.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is a catch-all term that covers a wide range of conditions and problems affecting the heart and blood vessels. It includes congenital (heart defects that are present in the womb) as well as later-life heart conditions.
Although most forms of heart disease are not understood, there are certain lifestyle factors that can increase your chance of developing them. Those factors include smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, poor diet and lack of exercise. There are also certain diseases and infections that can damage and weaken the heart.
A blockage in the arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body, is the main cause of most heart problems. These blockages can cause chest pain, heart attack, stroke or another serious health issue.
Cardiomyopathy, a common form of heart disease, can affect the left ventricle or lower chamber of your heart. There are several kinds of this condition, including dilated cardiomyopathy, which is a condition that causes enlarged heart muscle.
This condition is often passed down from one generation to another, but it can also be caused by an injury or heart attack. It is a chronic condition and requires treatment. This can include medication, lifestyle changes, surgery, and medication.
Symptoms of heart disease vary from person to person, but they typically include shortness of breath and fatigue. They may also include indigestion, heartburn or nausea. You may also experience dizziness or fainting.
Heart disease symptoms can be very debilitating if not diagnosed and treated promptly. There are many resources that can help you understand your diagnosis and what to expect during treatment.
Social Security disability benefits are available for those who have been diagnosed with a serious heart condition. These cases are subject to specific impairment standards by the SSA. An experienced disability attorney can assist you in filing for these benefits if your condition is within these guidelines.
The most approved heart conditions are coronary artery disease, which is caused by blocked arteries and can lead to chest pain or heart attacks, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a thickening of the heart muscle. These conditions can affect anyone of any race or ethnicity. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, infection and certain drugs.