Arrhythmia and Dysrhythmia

Living with arrhythmia or dysrhythmia can be tough. These conditions cause irregular heart rhythms that can affect your daily life and work. If your condition significantly impacts you, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) might help.

This guide explains how the Social Security Administration views these conditions. It also tells you what documents to collect and offers simple steps for filing a claim.

What Are Arrhythmia and Dysrhythmia?

Arrhythmia, also called dysrhythmia, refers to an irregular heartbeat. This happens when electrical signals that control the heart’s rhythm are disrupted. Types of arrhythmias include:

Some arrhythmias are mild, while others can be severe and risky for activities requiring physical effort or focus.

Symptoms and Complications of Arrhythmia

Arrhythmias affect people differently. Some may have no symptoms, while others experience frequent disruptions. Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or racing heartbeat
• Fainting or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Anxiety or a “fluttering” sensation in the chest

More severe cases can lead to:

• Heart failure – when the heart can’t pump enough blood
• Stroke – due to blood clots from the heart
• Sudden cardiac arrest – a life-threatening emergency
• Cognitive issues – from reduced blood flow to the brain

Complications can make working difficult, especially in demanding jobs or those that need focus. For example, fainting spells may make it unsafe to drive, while fatigue can make it hard to keep up with deadlines.

Can You Qualify for SSDI with Arrhythmia?

You may qualify for SSDI if your arrhythmia stops you from working full-time. But the SSA won’t approve claims just based on a diagnosis. Your condition must meet certain criteria.

Key eligibility factors include:

• Frequency and severity of symptoms: Occasional palpitations might not be a concern, but frequent fainting or chest pain is.
• Impact on work and daily life: Can you do your job safely? Have symptoms made you miss work often?
• Treatment response: Many people manage arrhythmia with medications or devices. If these treatments fail to control symptoms or cause side effects that disrupt work, it can strengthen your SSDI claim.

How Social Security Evaluates Arrhythmia

The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates arrhythmia under Section 4.05 of the Blue Book. To qualify, the condition must involve recurrent arrhythmias that are:

• Uncontrolled by prescribed treatment (despite compliance with your doctor’s instructions).
• Documented through medical testing, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or similar diagnostic evidence.
• Severe enough to cause near-fainting, fainting, or altered consciousness.

The SSA places strong emphasis on accurate medical evidence. This means your claim must show that your arrhythmia is long-lasting and limiting.

Living with Arrhythmia: You’re Not Alone

Managing a heart condition can be scary, especially at work. Fear and uncertainty often come with these symptoms. You may worry about supporting yourself or your family.

People with heart rhythm disorders often struggle to keep their jobs. This is especially true in fast-paced or high-stress environments. Even with treatment, medication side effects can be as disruptive as the arrhythmia.

SSDI can replace lost income and provide support when health issues affect your work. Applying for benefits can feel overwhelming. If you take it step by step with professional guidance, it makes the process less stressful.

How Pond Lehocky Disability Can Help

We know that living with a heart rhythm disorder like arrhythmia can be overwhelming. The process of applying for disability benefits often adds stress at a time when you need relief.

Many arrhythmias are considered “hidden disabilities”. You may seem healthy, but your symptoms can interrupt life in ways others don’t understand. We have represented countless individuals facing these challenges.

We know how to show the Social Security Administration (SSA) the full impact of your condition. Pond Lehocky Disability is here to help you with the process of applying for benefits. Our attorneys and case managers provide support at every stage of the SSDI process. Specifically, we can help you:

• Organize and strengthen your medical records: We gather hospital notes and cardiology reports. We also procure test results, such as EKGs, Holter monitors, and stress tests. These documents are reviewed and presented to highlight the seriousness of your condition.
• Work directly with your doctors: We get detailed statements from your treating physicians. This shows how your arrhythmia limits your ability to work. We stress: fainting spells, medication side effects, concentration, and limitations on physical activity.
• Navigate SSA rules and paperwork: The SSA’s forms are complex and often confusing. Our team makes sure everything is completed accurately and on time so your claim isn’t delayed or denied over technical issues.
• Appeal a denied claim with a strong case: If your initial application is rejected, we don’t stop there. We build a comprehensive appeal, and we prepare you for hearings. We also represent you before an Administrative Law Judge if necessary.
• Provide ongoing guidance and reassurance: We are here to support you. You’ll never feel like you’re handling the process alone.

We believe applying for SSDI is more than just filing paperwork. It is about protecting your livelihood, your health, and your peace of mind. We approach every client with care and compassion.