Our Washington DC and Baltimore Heart Disease Lawyer Helps You Pursue Disability Benefits 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for about 1 in 4 deaths nationwide. The term “heart disease” is actually an umbrella term that encompasses many different types of conditions, some of which qualify the sufferer for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits under certain circumstances. If you cannot work due to heart disease, a Baltimore Social Security disability lawyer can help you determine whether you qualify for SSDI benefits. 

Which Types of Heart Disease Are Covered? 

Heart disease can have a debilitating effect on the sufferer’s life and, as a result, his or her ability to work. As the most common cause of death in the United States, heart disease is a major area covered by the SSDI program. Common types of heart disease may qualify the sufferer for Social Security disability insurance benefits, including: 

Congestive Heart Failure 

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart does not pump blood as well as it should. It commonly results in shortness of breath, fatigue, persistent cough or wheezing, lack of appetite and nausea, swelling of the abdomen, and rapid weight gain. Persistent heart failure can significantly limit an individual’s ability to independently initiate, sustain, or complete the activities of daily living. 

Coronary Artery Disease 

The coronary arteries supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart. Coronary artery disease develops when the coronary arteries become damaged or blocked, resulting in decreased blood flow to the heart. Its most common symptoms are pain or tightness in the chest and shortness of breath, and it is also a major contributing factor to heart attacks.  

Recurrent Arrhythmias

A heart arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat, which can either be a fast heartbeat (tachycardia) or a slow heartbeat (bradycardia). The most common arrhythmia symptoms are chest pain, shortness of breath, and fluttering in the chest, although some arrhythmias present no symptoms. Ventricular fibrillation, another type of arrhythmia, can cause the heart to stop pumping blood, which can be deadly.  

Congenital Heart Disease 

Congenital heart disease refers to defects in the heart that exist from birth. While some congenital heart diseases cause no problems, others can cause life-threatening complications. Cyanosis, a common symptom of congenital heart disease, can cause a bluish discoloration of the skin resulting from poor blood oxygenation.  

Heart Transplant 

A heart transplant is a major operation wherein a failing heart is replaced by a donor heart. Heart transplants can involve complications and require extensive rehabilitation periods. Even successful heart transplants can result in long-term impairment for those who undergo them. 

Aneurysm of the Aorta or Major Branches

An aneurysm is a weakened area of the aorta that causes the blood running through it to bulge out like a balloon. Eventually, the wall of the aorta can tear, resulting in life-threatening bleeding or even sudden death. Symptoms of aortic aneurysms include pain in the chest, back pain, hoarseness, cough, and shortness of breath. 

Contact a Washington DC or Baltimore Heart Disease Disability Lawyer for More Information 

If you suffer from heart disease, you may be entitled to Social Security disability insurance benefits, but you should consult with an attorney who can help you evaluate your case before you apply. To get started, please contact Baltimore Social Security disability lawyer Emmett B. Irwin by using our online form or calling us at 443-839-0818.  We also provide service to clients located in Washington DC.