Every year, thousands of Americans develop disabilities that prevent them from living a healthy, functional life. Unfortunately, some suffer in silence without seeking the help that they deserve. Disability programs are available to all with eligible disabilities, so it is important to know what conditions qualify for disability.
While speaking with a disability attorney is the best way to know if you may be a candidate for benefits, it is possible to start on your own. Below are the top 5 disabling conditions that receive benefits from Social Security.
1) Arthritis
Over 50 million adults and 300,000 children are documented to have some form of arthritis. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis and relating conditions, most of which affect the joints and cause symptoms like swell-ing, stiffness, and chronic pain.
While some forms are manageable, some cases of arthritis can leave a person incapacitated with little means to cope and provide for his or her wellbeing. For those whose arthritis is too prominent to function, disability benefits can provide help.
2) Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative Disc Disease, or DDD, is a form of osteoarthritis that occurs in the spine. It is incredibly common, affecting over 3 million Americans of all ages in some form. Symptoms include back and neck pain, numbness in the limbs, inflammation, soreness, and an inability to perform tasks without moderate to severe pain.
Those who suffer from DDD may find it hard to work, move, or function as they normally would, leaving them unable to care for their health and their finances. For those crippled by their DDD, disability benefits may be the best option to supplement their income.
3) Cancer
Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrollable division of the body’s cells. These divisions build up to form tumors that reduce the body’s ability to function. The most common forms of cancer are breast cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma.
Depending on the severity of the cancer, a person can be hindered by mobility issues, pain, necessary medical equipment and procedures, or any side effects caused by these procedures. Those with invasive, severe, or incurable cancers may qualify for disability benefits to ensure that their health can remain the number one priority.
4) Paralysis
Paralysis is more of a symptom than a specific diagnosis. It is a condition that involves the loss of muscle function or feeling in the body. It is most often caused by damage to the spinal cord, which can be brought on by strokes, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, physical trauma, or any number of other disabling conditions.
While paralysis keeps a person from physically using specific parts of the body, it can also cause bowel trouble, ulcers, loss of sexual function, or even mental disorders such as depression. Those who suffer from paralysis may qualify for disability benefits to help them live a healthy, independent lifestyle.
5) Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is a disorder of the central nervous system that impairs movement and worsens over time. Symptoms include tremors, slowed movement, stiffness in the limbs, and a loss of balance and coordination.
There are over 200,000 Americans currently affected by Parkinson’s Disease. While there are some methods of coping with its symptoms, a cure has yet to be found. Due to the disorder’s debilitating nature, it is common for sufferers to receive disability benefits to provide funds while they are unable to work reliably.
Contacting a Social Security Attorney
If you feel that you may qualify for disability benefits, it is wise to consult with a disability attorney. A disability attorney is an irreplaceable resource when filing out applications, keeping paperwork organized, and aiding you in the appeals process if necessary. To give yourself the best chance at receiving the assistance you deserve, speak with a disability attorney today.
