Crohn’s disease leads to inflammation in the intestines. This painful condition could necessitate surgery and may lead to long-term complications. People who are limited in their abilities may be eligible for social security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits. These benefits are funded by paycheck deductions, and people who apply for benefits must have worked a minimum number of hours each year leading up to the application date in order to qualify. Unlike welfare benefits, SSDI benefits are earned by recipients before they need them.
Disability For Crohn’s Disease
People who suffer from Crohn’s disease may be able to manage their condition with medication and a change in diet, but there are individuals who continue to experience complications despite treatment efforts. Crohn’s disease is defined as a painful inflammation in the digestive tract, and this condition can cause breaks in the intestinal lining.
Severe cases of Crohn’s disease cause perforations to form in the intestinal lining. These perforations can form anywhere along the digestive tract. Obstructions can also occur in the intestine, and the incomplete emptying of the bowels that occurs as a result of an obstruction can increase a person’s risk of colon cancer.
Diarrhea caused by the condition may make it impossible for the body to properly absorb nutrients. Complications including weakness and fatigue can occur, and the fact that Crohn’s disease is an ongoing condition can make it difficult for supplements to be administered to treat malnutrition.
An abscess may form in the bowels as a result of Crohn’s disease. An infected abscess requires prompt treatment in order to avoid further complications including sepsis. People who have complications related to Crohn’s disease may even have to have a portion of their bowels removed to prevent life-threatening problems.
Crohn’s Disease and SSDI
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains listings of recognized disabilities that qualify an individual for SSDI benefits. Crohn’s disease is covered under the inflammatory bowel disease listing. However, suffering from this condition does not automatically qualify a person for benefits. Sufferers are still required to meet certain qualifications in order to receive SSDI benefits.
The first step to qualifying for SSDI benefits is receiving a diagnosis for inflammatory bowel disease. A medical provider should note that the individual has an inflammatory bowel disease that is commonly referred to as Crohn’s disease. This will clear up any confusion about the type of condition.
There are listed complications that allow a person to qualify for benefits. For example, malnutrition related to the condition may lead to chronic anemia that is impossible to treat. Bowel obstructions or an abscess can also qualify a person for benefits because of the likelihood that serious complications that require surgical intervention will occur.
Some sufferers are unable to put on weight because of Crohn’s disease. Rapid, unintentional weight loss is a listed complication. Chronic pain and cramping that cannot be properly managed with medication are also listed complications.
People who do not have one of the complications listed above may still qualify for benefits. These individuals must prove that their condition causes limitations that make it impossible for them to work in any position for which they are qualified.
Getting Help With Applying
Most first-time SSDI benefit applications are denied. Many of these applications are filed in relation to a valid disability, but the SSA is very strict about how paperwork must be filled out and filed. A failure to provide thorough evidence of disability through medical records is the most common reason for a denial. Individuals who are suffering from a debilitating condition may feel frustrated when they are not able to receive the benefits that they earned and need. It is important for people to consult with an SSDI attorney before starting the application process. Lawyers who are experienced in SSDI cases know what the SSA is looking for when it comes to the benefit application. Gain peace of mind and an advocate by contacting an SSDI law firm. I have ten years of experience in social security cases and appeals, and am ready to fight for your benefits. Contact me today to get started on your case.