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High blood pressure or high cholesterol does not qualify for Social Security Disability. Both conditions are rather common. However, untreated and severe cases may result in liability. This is especially true when your condition worsens. It is also true if other conditions develop as well.
At Pond Lehocky Disability, we work with individuals who have medical conditions limiting their ability to work. We bring extensive experience to your case. Schedule a consultation to discuss your diagnosis with us.
When High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol Happen
High blood pressure is a medical condition involving the circulatory system. The force of blood moving through the walls of your arteries is high regularly. This causes damage to those blood vessels. It can contribute to serious complications and health factors.
Primary hypertension occurs in people as they age. They may also have lifestyle factors that contribute to it. This is the most common form. Secondary hypertension occurs when other conditions contribute to the constriction of blood vessels. These could include medications.
High cholesterol occurs when plaque builds up along the arterial walls. This limits the amount of blood that can flow to various areas of the body. High cholesterol can result from a high-fat diet, genetics, smoking, or a lack of physical activity.
Both high blood pressure and high cholesterol have numerous associated health risks. This includes the risk of:
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Kidney disease
- Peripheral artery disease
- Sudden death
Some of these conditions can be life-threatening. Treatments can help. Your doctor may put you on numerous medications and lifestyle changes.
High Blood Pressure Disability Benefits
It is not common for high blood pressure to qualify you for disability benefits. Obtaining SSDI approval depends on the complications caused by high blood pressure. It is the same with high cholesterol.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a list of impairments. Impairments that qualify for SSDI. This is called the Blue Book. It outlines the recognized disabilities and the necessary parameters for qualification. High cholesterol is not automatically covered. High blood pressure is not listed itself.
You may still qualify if you have one of several commonly associated conditions. This falls under the 4.00 Cardiovascular System listings. Diagnosis of the following conditions could help you qualify:
- Chronic venous insufficiency: High cholesterol can contribute to a reduction in blood flow. This can happen in the legs, knees, ankles, or hips. Chronic development of complications from this condition may qualify you for disability.
- Peripheral artery disease: This occurs when plaque develops on the arteries. It specifically targets the arms and legs. People with severe cases may develop limitations in mobility and significant pain.
- Ischemic heart disease: High cholesterol and blood pressure can contribute. This leads to complications in the primary arteries. This can worsen over time and cause complications.
Your doctor will discuss any potential complications with you. Complications you have from either of these conditions. Having these conditions alone does not automatically qualify you for disability. You must still meet the particular requirements under each condition.
Potential Complications that May Help You Qualify
High blood pressure and cholesterol can impact various aspects of your life. This becomes more common if the condition worsens or the treatment is ineffective. Individuals with any of the following conditions should consult a disability attorney. This can help them understand their ability to qualify for SSDI.
- Organ damage. This may include the heart, kidneys, or other organs.
- Chronic cardiovascular conditions. This may include recurrent arrhythmias, chronic heart failure, or ischemic heart disease.
Speak to your disability attorney about what you are experiencing. Our lawyer will help you determine:
- What conditions that you have that may qualify for SSDI
- The parameters you must meet to receive SSDI with those conditions
- The medical tests and evidence necessary to demonstrate these losses
Medical testing will provide clarity on the severity of your condition. This includes lab tests, imaging, and treatment outcomes. Your doctor will also provide a statement that can clarify the extent of your condition. You must show how your medical condition is impacting your ability to work.
Factors that Play a Role in Qualifying for SSDI with High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
A high cholesterol disability claim requires a clear indication that you cannot work. There could be many reasons for this. Heart failure can be brought on by high blood pressure. As a result, you may not be able to engage in physical activity for long periods of time. A person with irregular heartbeats from cholesterol buildup may suffer cardiac arrest. This can happen while engaging in physical activity.
SSA will consider factors such as the following:
- The severity of your condition. Medical records must show that your condition is bad. Bad enough that it prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.
- The duration of the condition. SSDI for hypertension or high cholesterol complications must be likely to continue. They must be likely to prevent you from working for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
- Medical evidence. Medical evidence will include a formal diagnosis of the condition and complications. Demonstration of treatment provided and its continued inability to create improvement is necessary. Functional limitations tests for your condition may be required.
Your doctor may provide information that helps you understand your limitations. A Medical Expert appointed by the court may also provide clarity on why you cannot work. Demonstrate with clarity how these conditions are impacting your mobility and cognitive function. You must have documentation that shows the impact of continuing to work.
Work with Our Disability Attorney to Determine What Your Rights Are
Contact Pond Lehocky Disability to explore whether your condition qualifies for SSDI. We work with those who have serious impairments. Impairments from conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Let us help you demonstrate to SSA what your limitations are and why you are eligible for disability.
