Living with diabetes can be challenging. In severe cases, it may impact your ability to work. If you are struggling with diabetes-related complications, you might be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses glucose. Type 1 diabetes occurs when your body is unable to produce insulin, while type 2 diabetes occurs when your body is unable to use insulin effectively.
Symptoms of diabetes may include:
- Being thirsty all the time and needing to urinate frequently
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and blurred vision
- Wounds that heal slowly
What are its complications and debilitating effects?
Diabetes may lead to severe complications that may qualify you for SSD benefits. These may include:
Cardiovascular issues
Your risk of heart disease and stroke may increase significantly.
Neuropathy
You may also suffer from nerve damage. This may cause pain, numbness and loss of feeling.
Nephropathy
You may be prone to kidney damage. This may eventually lead to kidney failure.
Retinopathy
You may encounter vision problems. This could potentially result in blindness.
Amputation
Severe infections might require limb removal.
These complications could severely impact your daily life and work capabilities. This could make it difficult to maintain employment.
How do you qualify for SSD benefits?
To qualify for SSD benefits with diabetes, you must meet specific criteria:
- Your condition must be severe and expected to last at least 12 months.
- You must be unable to perform substantial gainful activity due to your condition.
- Your diabetes must be poorly controlled despite following prescribed treatment.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate your medical records, work history and daily activities to determine eligibility. They may assess how your diabetes affects your ability to perform work-related tasks and maintain employment.
You may have to provide detailed medical documentation as part of the requirements. This may include:
- Blood glucose levels and A1C test results
- Records of hospitalizations and emergency room visits
- Descriptions of diabetes-related complications
- Statements from your healthcare providers
The application process could be complex and time-consuming. Consider seeking legal assistance. An attorney could guide you through the process and improve your chances of approval.
