Heart conditions rank as one of the top causes of disability in the United States. Fortunately, many people who suffer from heart conditions are eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. However, there are many different types of cardiovascular and heart conditions, some more serious than others. Here are some heart conditions that often qualify for SSDI benefits.
Chronic heart failure
Heart failure basically means a person’s heart is not pumping enough blood for their body. Heart failure is a chronic condition that often gets worse with time. Systolic heart failure is when the heart is unable to pump blood out to the body. Diastolic heart failure refers to when the heart’s chambers don’t properly fill with blood. Most of the time, to qualify for disability, heart failure must be systolic or diastolic.
Aneurysm of the Aorta
The aorta is the largest artery in the human body and about the diameter of a garden hose. It transports oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Sometimes, the wall of the aorta can weaken and bulge out, resulting in an aneurysm. Regardless of the cause, those who suffer an aneurysm of the aorta will usually be eligible for disability.
Heart transplant
In a heart transplant, a person’s damaged or diseased heart is surgically removed and replaced with a healthier heart from a donor. Those who undergo a heart transplant are automatically considered disabled for at least 12 months. Thus, this is a heart condition that qualifies for SSDI.
Applying for SSDI benefits
Obtaining disability benefits for a heart condition boils down to the type of condition and how severe the condition is. Those who suffer from a heart condition and wish to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance can start by visiting the Social Security Administration’s website or call the SSA office. Keep in mind that consulting with an experienced and knowledgeable legal professional throughout the application process can prove invaluable to those who wish to obtain benefits.
