Disability Law

A number of our Social Security Disability clients have suffered from heart attacks. Individuals suffering from this disorder frequently experience the following symptoms:

? shortness of breath,

? chest pain, and

? dizziness.

The course of prescribed treatment can include physical therapy, medications, and, in some cases, a stent placement. While not all individuals who have been diagnosed with a heart attack will be found disabled under Social Security rules, it is not uncommon for benefits to be granted based on this cardiac condition. One resource for people with heart attacks and other heart conditions is the American Heart Association. The American Heart Association is a nonprofit that offers information to those suffering from heart attacks, and you can learn more at their Web site.

Recently we were able to win Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income for several individuals who suffered from severe heart attacks. Their restrictions were among the more severe of those who have suffered heart attacks. The degree of frequency and severity of an individual's symptoms are unique in each case and will determine, to a large degree, whether an individual claim will be granted benefits.

Some diseases are included in Social Security?s Listing of impairments and some are not. In some instances, a disease, while not Listed, is addressed in a Social Security Ruling. The Rulings offer guidance but do not set out specific criteria for an award of benefits. Other diseases are not in the Listings or recognized in a Social Security Ruling. Sometimes a disease is listed, but the criteria are very rigorous. In these cases, an appeal before an judge is likely to be necessary. Regardless of the disease, you and your lawyer should have the following:

? a good working list of your symptoms,

? a knowledge of the degree of certainty of your diagnosis,

? a general understanding of the consistency between your symptoms and your diagnosis,

? a good understanding of what evidence might best support your contention that your symptoms are disabling, and

? which legal theory will most likely be accepted by Social Security Administration given the particular facts of the entire case.

If you, or someone you know, has suffered from a severe heart attack with continuing shortness of breath and chest pain with exertion or at rest, consider contacting American Heart Association for additional information on the disorder. If you are considering a Social Security Disability claim, we advise you to speak with an attorney. We handle cases throughout the state of Texas, but we are always happy to give you a referral if we are unable to assist you.