Many people are aware of the fact that the Social Security Disability claim filing process is anything but simple and straightforward. While the initial application process only takes three to four months to complete, the majority of disability claims are denied by the Social Security Administration during the initial stage of the application process. Because of this, many applicants must endure the lengthy and stressful disability appeal process in order to obtain the Social Security Disability benefits they are entitled to. This process can take years to complete depending on the backlog of claims in the area in which the applicant lives.
Individuals who are applying for Social Security Disability benefits due to very severe conditions often feel that the wait times for disability approvals are unfair and unreasonable. In some cases, they are right. This is why the SSA implemented the Compassionate Allowances program in 2008. Under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines, some disability applicants may be approved for benefits in a matter of weeks rather than having to wait months or even years before their Social Security Disability benefits are approved. Individuals who are applying for disability benefits for a child who has been diagnosed with infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy are among those who may qualify for expedited handling of their Social Security Disability claims.
If your child has been diagnosed with infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy and you are wondering how the condition affects your child's eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits, the following information will help you understand the disability claim process and how you can improve your chances of obtaining a hassle-free approval of your child's benefits under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (INAD) - Condition and Symptoms
Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy, also referred to as INAD, is a rare neurological disorder that is usually diagnosed within the first two years of a child's life. The condition is inherited and affects the nerve cells that carry messages from the brain to the other parts of the child's body. The impact on the nerve cells results in a progressive loss of muscular control, vision loss and deteriorating mental abilities.
Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy is a genetic condition that is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. In order for a child to develop the disorder, each parent must pass on one copy of the mutated gene that causes the condition. Even though both parents pass this gene on to their child, which results in the child inheriting two mutated copies of the gene, it is rare for parents to show signs and symptoms of the condition themselves.
The signs and symptoms of infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy can vary from case to case. Common symptoms of the condition include a loss of head control, the inability to sit or stand, crawl or walk, a loss of vision and an impairment of speech. Because the condition is progressive, these symptoms will become worse over time. In some cases, seizures and facial deformities may also be caused by the condition.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy and no treatment is available to stop the progress of the disease. Instead, treatment is focused on making patients more comfortable. Pain medications and prescriptions for sedation are often provided to children who are suffering from the condition. While the prognosis of the condition varies on a case-to-case basis, death will usually occur between the ages of five to ten years in children who develop this condition.
Filing for Social Security Disability with Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (INAD)
It can be devastating for a parent to receive a diagnosis of infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy for their child. Oftentimes one parent will be unable to work due to the standard of care the child will need. Costs for specialized help and medical care can also add to the financial burden. Fortunately Social Security Disability benefits can help offset some of the financial stress caused by the condition.
If your child has been diagnosed with infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy, your application for disability benefits will likely be approved in a matter of weeks. You will, however, have to provide the Social Security Administration with enough medical evidence to support your claim for disability benefits. Lab results, medical records and written statements from treating physicians can help support your Social Security Disability claim.
Your Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (INAD) Social Security Disability Case
If you are filing a claim for Social Security Disability benefits based on a diagnosis of infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy, do not assume that your claim will automatically be approved by the SSA. Although it is rare, some claims based on Compassionate Allowances listings are denied by the Social Security Administration. This is usually the result of a lack of medical evidence, an improperly submitted application for benefits or a lack of understanding on the part of the adjudicator who is reviewing the claim.
In order to increase your chances of obtaining a quick approval of your disability claim, you may wish to retain the services of a qualified disability attorney. These professionals can help you gather the necessary medical evidence and will make sure that your claim is submitted properly, ensuring that the adjudicator who is reviewing your file understands the severity of the condition and how it qualifies your claim for processing under the Social Security Administration's Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
