Heart disease is a general term describing many conditions that affect the cardiovascular system. There are many different types of heart disease, including:
There are many causes of heart disease and varying levels of severity and symptoms. When applying for Social Security disability benefits, no matter what type of heart disease you have, it’s important to focus on the types of symptoms you have and how those symptoms would keep you from working. Cardiovascular disease can cause many symptoms, but most commonly: shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, weakness, nausea, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, palpitations, and pain radiating to other parts of the body. It is very important to discuss all symptoms with your physician, as some symptoms of heart disease can indicate a very serious and life-threatening cardiovascular condition. Social Security has listings for cardiovascular conditions, and if your cardiovascular condition meets or equals this listing, then you would qualify for benefits:
Like many of Social Security’s listings, it is very difficult to qualify for SSI or DIB based on the cardiovascular listings. To qualify based on a listing you must have been receiving regular medical treatment, comply with your prescribed treatment, and have your doctor’s support. Many of the listings for cardiovascular disease rely on test results, or specific physician notes, so it is important that you do any examinations or tests that your doctor recommends, and that you comply with all treatment. There are many tests of the cardiovascular system that could reveal a listing level impairment:
Even if your heart condition does not meet one of Social Security’s strict listings for a cardiovascular condition, you still may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Social Security reviews your overall health and your ability to work, considering all your health conditions, not just one. We have many clients who have heart disease along with other health conditions, such as:
If heart disease alone does not prevent a client from working, sometimes the combined effects of heart disease and other conditions can prevent a client from working. Every SSI or SSDI case for heart disease is unique. Our job is to review the medical file and find a theory for proving your disability based on your cardiovascular condition and your other health conditions. If you have heart disease, we will argue one, or a combination of the following:
We are experienced in handling cases involving heart disease, and we would be happy to speak with you. We offer a free initial case evaluation. If we can assist you with your case, we will put forth the effort and time to pursue the disability benefits you deserve. If we are unable to take on your case, we will explain why we cannot take your case and how your case could be improved. Please contact us by completing the contact us form on our website, or by calling our office. Our toll-free number is 877-835-0923, and our local number in Durham, NC is 919-794-4437.
