Qualifying for SSD with Epilepsy

Estimates show there are more than 2 million Americans suffering from epilepsy. In one-third of those cases, there is no effective treatment, leaving victims to suffer uncontrollable disruptions of electrical signals traveling between neurons in the brain.

Many epileptics are unable to work due to their medical conditions, but assistance is available through Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits that can act as a source of income. However, there are several standards you must meet to qualify for SSD benefits with epilepsy.

How is Epilepsy Characterized?

Epilepsy is a syndrome characterized as a chronic neurological disorder with recurrent, unprovoked seizures. There are different kinds of seizures—brief, electrical disturbances in the brain—and each person’s seizures are unique to them. If you have one seizure during your lifetime, you aren’t considered to have epilepsy.

There are different kinds of epilepsy, each with varied symptoms. Epilepsy can usually be controlled with prescription medication but can’t be cured with medication alone. In some cases where medication isn’t preventing epileptic episodes, surgery may be considered.

Epilepsy and Social Security Disability

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the central or peripheral nervous system. A physician should indicate the extent to which the description of seizures reflects their own observations and the source of ancillary information. Testimony from other reliable sources other than the applicant is essential for description of type and frequency of seizures if professional observation is not available.

While SSA policies are very broad in outlining what information is needed from doctors in order for epilepsy disability claims to be approved, the agency evaluates eligibility for SSD benefits based on the degree of impairment according to type, frequency, duration, and resulting conditions of seizures. Applicants must also submit at least one detailed description of a typical seizure indicating the presence or absence of aura, tongue bites, sphincter control, injuries associated with the attack, and postictal phenomena.

Helping You Qualify for SSD with Epilepsy

Although the SSA considers epilepsy a disabling condition, many people like you may see their benefits claims denied due to lack of evidence, incomplete forms, or missing information. At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, we know how important SSD benefits are to your family when you can’t work, and that’s why we’ll do everything in our power to build a strong claim for you and fight to get it approved.

Let our firm examine your case to clarify what documentation is needed for you to qualify for SSD with epilepsy. Call us anytime to discuss your case.

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