There are a broad range of conditions that can lead to a disability diagnosis. Some of these conditions are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices, while others are entirely contingent upon a person’s genetics.
According to the Social Security Administration, studies indicate that of today’s 20-year-olds, just over 1 in 4 will become disabled before retirement age.
Here are 10 of the most common disabling conditions that result in Social Security disability claims.
1. Musculoskeletal Problems
Arthritis is the leading musculoskeletal condition that may cause long-term disability and makes up about a third of all disability cases. Joint and muscle problems can limit mobility, and severe arthritis can limit fine motor skills. Social Security lawyers understand that these factors can severely diminish the ability to perform a wide range of jobs.
2. Heart Disease
More than 800,000 people in the U.S. die every year from cardiovascular disease. Including the cost of health care, medications and lost productivity, heart disease costs the United States about $200 billion ever year. For those suffering form heart disease, the severity of the condition can result in very strict limitations on the patient’s activity levels and ability to work.
3. Cancer
Rising cancer rates contribute to the fact that this diagnosis is the fastest growing condition cited in disability claims. As treatments become more effective, more and more cancer patients are surviving their diagnoses. However, the treatments can often take a harsh toll on the patient, making a return to work very challenging.
4. Mental Health Conditions
Many mental illnesses are still largely misunderstood and difficult to diagnose, but it is clear that they can be just as debilitating as physical disabilities. Social Security lawyers understand that conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder and others are very real health problems that can take a tremendous toll on a person’s ability to continue working, and thus are the No. 1 most common reason people seek Social Security disability.
5. Diabetes
Type II diabetes is linked with a wide range of other health problems, including heart disease. The treatment often comes with a complete overhaul of the patient’s lifestyle that can be difficult to manage.
6. Nervous System Disorders
In young adults, the leading causes of disability are Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease and Epilepsy. The disorders usually manifest between 20 and 40 years old and those who suffer from them will continue to be affected for the rest of their lives.
7. Strokes
Strokes often come with limited functioning that may or may not improve over time. Brain damage from strokes can affect physical, mental and emotional functions.
8. Autism
As the medical community learns more about autism, the diagnosis is becoming much more frequent in both children and adults. While it is not always a disabling condition, some with autism find it difficult to find and maintain employment.
9. Accidents
Although accidents are often presumed to be a major factor in disability cases, Social Security lawyers know that these cases actually make up less than 10% of cases. Accidents that result in a disability claim may occur at work, at home or any number of other places.
10. Pregnancy
Long-term disability claims resulting from pregnancy are rare; however, complications with pregnancy and/or birth can at times severely affect the mother-to-be. Social Security lawyers also note an increase in the number of employers offering private short-term disability payouts for pregnant employees to counter the strict limitations on paid parental leave in the United States.
Whether you are just starting the process of filing a disability claim or have been denied and need to file an appeal, The Law Offices Of M. Stanley Whitehead can help. Call our experienced Houston Social Security lawyers today for a free consultation.
