Diabetes

Diabetes is a common condition affecting just over 8 percent of Americans where the body’s insulin levels are imbalanced. For many patients, diabetes is manageable and does not threaten their quality of life with proper care. But for some patients, diabetes causes serious health problems that endanger their lives and limit their ability to engage in recreational and work-related activities. These severely impacted individuals may be able to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) benefits from the United States government, depending on their work history and medical background.

Disabling Effects of Diabetes

The four types of diabetes — Type 1, Type 2, gestational, and pre-diabetes — can have serious medical implications. Although the Social Security Administration lists diabetes as one of the acceptable medical impairments that qualify for SSD, only patients who can prove they have severe health problems as a result of their diabetes may be approved for benefits.

Because diabetes causes problems with the production of insulin, patients often experience erratic energy levels and periods of extreme fatigue. Without enough insulin, the body cannot properly convert food into sustainable energy. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a whole host of health concerns, including peripheral neuropathy, blindness, renal failure, vascular disease, and more. Patients who must undergo amputation may qualify for limb loss benefits under SSD.

Diabetic persons may experience any of the following:

  • Frequent urination
  • Frequent infection
  • Slow healing of cuts, abrasions, or bruises
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue/weakness
  • Vision impairment
  • Extreme and unquenchable thirst
  • Persistent hunger
  • Tingling or numbness in the legs, hands, or feet
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Irritability

Hiring an Attorney to Prove Diabetes Disability

For help with your disability claim, consider taking advantage of the many benefits a knowledgeable attorney can provide. Your SSD lawyer’s job is to help you gather ample evidence to show how your diabetes directly limits your ability to perform job duties — including your past jobs and any other income-earning activities. With the guidance of a legal professional, you can improve your opportunity to receive benefits and have all of your questions about SSD answered right away.

If you are diabetic and would like to talk to a lawyer about filing a claim for SSD, please use our disability attorney directory to locate a professional near you.