Can one receive SSD benefits for chronic heart failure?

People in Florida who are suffering from heart problems know how difficult it can be to function on a daily basis. The heart is so important to normal functioning that any kind of cardiac illness or condition can result in the inability to work and the need for help every day. It is with this in mind that a person might choose to seek Social Security disability benefits for illness. One particular issue that might make it necessary to file for SSD benefits is chronic heart failure.

Knowing what the Social Security Administration requires to approve benefits is key when applying for benefits. When it comes to heart failure, both impairment categories A and B must be met. The requirements in category A include a systolic failure and left ventricular end diastolic dimensions that are measured to be greater than 6.0 centimeters or an ejection fraction that is 30 percent or less when the patient is stable. It is not to be measured during an episode of heart failure. Another way to be approved is to have a left ventricular posterior wall with septal thickness of 2.5 centimeters or more when checked by medical imaging. There must be an enlarged left atrium that is either equal to or larger than 4.5 centimeters. It must be measured with an elevated or normal ejection fraction when stable.

For category B, there must be: symptoms of heart failure limiting the person’s ability to complete activities that are required for daily living, or three or more episodes of acute congestive heart failure within 12 consecutive months with fluid retention making it necessary for medical intervention with hospitalization for at least 12 hours. Alternatively, there must be one of: an inability to perform an exercise tolerance of a specific period because of fatigue, palpitations, or chest discomfort; three premature contractions of the ventricle; a decrease in systemic blood pressure below the baseline or signs that are cerebral perfusion with evidence by being mentally confused.

Heart problems can be very serious and limit a person in numerous ways. When there is a heart illness or condition, it is important to understand whether it meets the federal requirements to receive Social Security disability benefits for illness. To obtain legal advice about SSD benefits and heart disease — which is not provided by this post — it may be necessary to contact an attorney.

Source: sss.gov, “4.02 Chronic heart failure,” Accessed July 13, 2015

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