Congestive Heart Failure Disability

When a person is unable to work due to disability, the financial struggle of having no source of income adds to loss of quality of life. Disabled individuals who cannot work should be focused on seeking medical treatment whenever possible, but the stress of being unable to pay for basic necessities takes the focus off of managing the pain and complications of a disability. People who have worked in the past may be eligible for social security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits. These benefits are earned through paycheck deductions that are remitted to the federal government. Eligibility is based on work history and the limitations caused by a disability. SSDI benefits are able to pay for necessities to take some of the pressure off of those who are struggling with a disability.

What is Congestive Heart Failure?

Congestive heart failure is a weakening of the heart that slows the pumping of blood throughout the body. When heart failure occurs, pressure increases in the heart. The slowing of blood circulation makes it more difficult for the body to receive essential nutrients and oxygen that are normally circulated in the blood. When fluid builds up in the extremities and organs due to poor blood circulation, heart failure progresses to congestive heart failure.

Symptoms of congestive heart failure include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, swelling in the extremities, bloating, nausea, dizziness, weakness, fatigue and irregular heartbeat. Many of these symptoms are indicative of other conditions, so it is important for a person with one or more of these symptoms to undergo tests to determine the underlying problem.

Congestive heart failure is typically treated with a combination of medication and a change in lifestyle. Healthy diet and exercise can help to reduce the risk of complications. Complications including stroke, muscle deterioration and ongoing respiratory problems may develop. If congestive heart failure is not promptly treated, the complications of the condition may be fatal.

Getting Disability for Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure is a common disease that is often caused by poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Many people are able to successfully manage the condition through lifestyle changes and a medication regimen. However, there are people who suffer from complications of congestive heart failure that are permanent in nature. These individuals may be eligible for SSDI benefits.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a listing for chronic heart failure. In order to qualify for benefits under this listing, a person must experience complications related to chronic heart failure that do not respond to medication. Medical records detailing fluid retention as a current or past complication are required.

Complications related to congestive heart failure must cause functional limitations in order for a person to qualify for benefits. These limitations are measured through poor performance on exercise tolerance tests, an inability to complete an exercise tolerance tests due to risks associated with the condition or severe fluid retention or heart failure that requires emergency medical intervention. A person must require emergency assistance at least three times within the 12 months preceding the application for benefits in order for this complication to qualify the individual for benefits.

Getting Help from an Attorney

Navigating the SSDI benefits application process is a long and frustrating process for many people. Failing to properly complete complicated forms required to apply for benefits can result in a denial. The SSA also denies many applications due to a failure to provide adequate medical evidence. SSDI attorneys know what the SSA expects, so they are able to guide their clients through the application process with these requirements and expectations in mind. Hiring an experienced legal professional helps to take the stress and frustration out of applying for much-needed benefits. The first step to a smoother, less stressful SSDI benefits application process is to consult with an attorney.

To discuss SSD and SSI claims or appeals, please call (215) 464-7200 or contact our disability attorney in Alabama using the form below.
The initial consultation is free, and we never charge a fee until we win your case.