Did you know that there are more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States reported having a disability?
All over the United States, especially in Orlando, many individuals face challenges due to physical or mental health conditions that limit their ability to earn a living.
Living with a disability can be overwhelming and difficult, especially when it impacts the ability to work and provide for yourself or your family.
The good news is that the Social Security Disability Insurance program is designed to provide financial support for those who qualify.
But how do you know if your condition qualifies for disability benefits?
However, the SSA maintains a list of impairments called the “Blue Book,” which mentions the medical conditions that automatically meet the criteria for disability benefits.
Here, we will share some of the seven disability conditions that qualify for disability benefits. With the help of a reliable and reputed Social Security attorney in Orlando, you can claim the benefits you deserve.
1. Skin Disorders
The SSA reviews skin disorders under Listing 8.00. These include:
- Ichthyosis
- Bullous Diseases
- Chronic Diseases
- Dermatitis
- Hidradenitis
- Suppurative
- Genetic Photosensitivity Disorders and Burns
Evaluation Criteria
- Chronic Skin Lesions: Long-lasting or frequent skin problems that cause pain and make movement difficult.
- Contractures: Tightened skin that limits your ability to move.
- Functional Limitations: Trouble using your arms, legs, standing, or walking due to skin issues.
Evidence Required
In order to show how the condition affects your daily life, provide the following:
- Detailed medical records.
- Test results.
- Evidence of treatments and their effects.
2. Diabetes
The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates Diabetes Mellitus( DM) under SSR 14-2p. It guides on assessing disability claims related to diabetes.
Not Special Listing for Diabetes
The SSA does not have a special listing of diabetes. Instead, it assesses the severity of diabetes-related complications that affect other body systems, such as
- Cardiovascular system: Heart disease or peripheral arterial disease.
- Renal system: Diabetic nephropathy that leads to chronic kidney disease.
- Neurological system: Peripheral neuropathy resulting in significant motor or sensory deficits.
- Vision: Diabetic retinopathy resulting in significant vision loss.
Work-Related Limitations
The SSA considers how diabetes and its effects limit an individual’s ability to perform work-related activities. This covers understanding physical and mental functioning limitations due to symptoms like fatigue, pain, or cognitive impairments.
Needed Medical Evidence
To qualify for the disability benefits, you will need the following:
- Clinical history and examination records
- Laboratory findings, such as blood glucose levels and HbA1c.
- Documentation of complications and their impact on daily activities.
- Records of treatments and responses, including hospitalizations or emergency room visits.
3. Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder which is evaluated under Listing 12.06 – Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders.
Key Criteria
This condition is evaluated based on having an excessive fear or anxiety in at least two situations, such as:
- Public transportation
- Crowded places
- Open spaces
Medical Documents Needed to Qualify
Medical documentation must show marked limitations in social interaction or concentration.
Additionally, you will need evidence of ongoing treatment and minimal ability to adapt to changes in daily life over at least two years to strengthen the claim.
4. Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)
This condition is a long-term loss of liver function with inflammation, scarring and cell death, which lasts for over 6 months.
Causes of CLD
It may result from hepatitis B or C infections or prolonged alcohol use.
SSA Evaluations Under Listing 5.05
The SSA evaluates CLD under Listing 5.05, with symptoms like jaundice, fatigue and ascites, and lab findings like low serum albumin and high INR.
Severe Complications of CLD
Severe complications are gastrointestinal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatorenal or hepatopulmonary syndrome.
Evidence Needed for Qualification
You will need detailed medical evidence and functional assessments to qualify for disability benefits.
5. Emphysema
Emphysema is a chronic lung condition that causes damage to the air sacs, leading to difficulty in breathing, chronic coughing and low oxygen levels.
SSA Evaluation Under Listing 3.02
The SSA evaluates it under Listing 3.02 – Chronic Respiratory Disorders, which requires pulmonary function tests (FEV1, FVC, DLCO) and evidence of severe impairment.
Requirements for Disability Benefits
To qualify for disability benefits, you must have the required evidence:
- Pulmonary Function Tests (FEV1, FVC, DLCO) show a severe impairment.
- Medical records of diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment history.
- Evidence of complications like respiratory failure or pulmonary hypertension.
| NOTE: Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessments may apply to evaluate how your condition limits your ability to work. It can be used if you don’t meet the specific disability criteria. |
6. Sleep Apnea
Sleep-related breathing disorders like sleep apnea cause short interruptions in breathing during sleep. It disrupts normal rest.
Potential Health Effects
However, long-lasting episodes can result in the following:
- Lower blood oxygen levels.
- Narrowing of lung blood vessels.
- Chronic high blood pressure in the lungs(pulmonary hypertension).
- Other serious health complications.
The Stance of the SSA on Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is not considered a disability by the SSA. But, if it leads to severe complications that limit your ability to work, then you may qualify for disability benefits under related medical conditions.
Key Requirement
To strengthen your claim, provide detailed medical evidence related to linking sleep apnea and its complications to your inability to do work-related tasks.
7. Bipolar Disorder
The SSA lists bipolar disorder under “Mental Disorders.” It is a mental health condition marked by mood disturbances, such as depression or euphoria, resulting in significant functional decline.
Impact on Daily Life and Work
These episodes often lead to difficulty concentrating and disruption in daily functioning, making the work challenging.
Requirements to Qualify for Disability Benefits
To qualify for the disability benefits for bipolar disorder, you will need to show its impact on your daily life and workability by providing:
- Medical diagnosis
- Treatment records
- Evidence of functional impairments
Conclusion
It is essential to know the conditions that qualify for disability benefits in Orlando. Some of the conditions that the SSA includes in their Blue List are chronic liver disease, emphysema, and mental health disorders like bipolar disorder or agoraphobia.
However, navigating the process of qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits can be challenging. So, with the help of disability attorney in Orlando, they can guide you through the process and ensure all necessary documents are submitted.
Need help with your disability claim? Reach out to Social Security attorney Orlando today!
