SSDI Benefits for Diabetes

Attorneys Helping People With Diabetes Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits in Dallas and Plano

Diabetes is a health condition that affects many people, and those who suffer from this disease have difficulty regulating their blood sugar levels because their body does not produce enough insulin. While some can manage the symptoms of diabetes with few serious issues, others may experience complications that affect their health and their ability to maintain employment. These complications may include heart disease, kidney disease, problems with vision, skin infections, high blood pressure, nerve damage, reduced blood flow to the limbs, and strokes. When complications related to diabetes affect a person's ability to work and earn an income, they may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

At the Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our attorneys can help you determine whether you will be eligible for disability based on issues related to diabetes. We will help you gather the necessary medical evidence to show that your condition has prevented you from working, and we will assist with the process of applying for Social Security disability or appealing a denied claim. We have a combined total of over 60 years of experience, and we can provide the legal help you need as you navigate the Social Security disability process.

Qualifying for Disability Benefits Related to Diabetes

Diabetes can affect a person differently based on when it occurs. Type 1 diabetes will usually manifest while a person is a child, and it may require them to monitor their glucose levels and undergo daily insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes will usually occur after a person reaches adulthood. While both types of diabetes may be manageable, complications may occur that affect a person's ability to work. In these cases, a person may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and their eligibility will depend on their age and the number of years they have worked and paid Social Security taxes.

While diabetes itself is not included in the Social Security Administration's listing of impairments (at least, not anymore), certain types of complications related to diabetes may qualify a person for disability benefits. These include:

• Kidney disorders- If diabetes has resulted in damage to the kidneys that require ongoing dialysis for at least 12 months, this will be considered to be a disability. Nephrotic kidney syndrome may also be considered a disability if a person has elevated levels of protein or creatinine in their blood and they experience swelling in areas of the body such as the lower legs or around the eyes.
• Nerve damage- Diabetes may result in peripheral neuropathy that affects a person's arms, legs, or hands. These issues may cause a person to be disabled if they have extreme difficulty standing up from a seated position, maintaining balance while standing or walking, or using their arms and hands.
• Cardiovascular issues- If diabetes has led to chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, or peripheral arterial disease, this may qualify a person for disability based on how these issues have limited their ability to perform work-related activities.
• Vision problems- Diabetic retinopathy can lead to loss of vision, blurred vision, or poor visual acuity. Typically, a person will be considered disabled if their visual acuity is measured between 20/100 and 20/200.
• Skin infections- A person will be considered to be disabled if they have extensive skin lesions that persist for three months or more even after receiving treatment.
• Amputation- Diabetes may lead to poor circulation and nerve damage in the extremities, which may require limbs to be amputated. A person may be considered disabled depending on the level of function they retain after an amputation. For example, amputation of one or both legs above the ankle will result in disability if the person cannot use a prosthetic limb and is required to use a walker, crutches, or a wheelchair.

Contact Our Collin County Social Security Disability Lawyers

If you have diabetes, the Law Offices of Coats & Todd can help you determine whether the health complications you have experienced will make you eligible for disability benefits. We will work with you to show that your condition has affected your ability to work and demonstrate that you need financial assistance to meet your ongoing needs. Contact our office today by calling 972-671-9922 to set up a free case evaluation. We represent clients in Social Security disability cases in Dallas County, Plano, Frisco, Denton, Denton County, Flower Mound, Dallas, Collin County, McKinney, Lewisville, and Allen.