Thyroid Conditions and Applying for SSDI: A Skilled SSDI Lawyer Explains What You Need to Know
The thyroid may be a small gland, but it can cause a multitude of issues in the human body when it’s not functioning correctly. If you have a serious thyroid condition, you may be experiencing problems with daily functioning and even an inability to work. Although the SSDI process for thyroid disorders can be complicated, you don’t have to go it alone. Phillip M. Hendry Law has been an attorney for over 30 years and you can rest easy knowing you’ll receive the guidance and assistance you need throughout the SSDI application process. If you need help with SSDI claims in Louisiana, East Texas, or Southwest Arkansas, call our knowledgeable SSDI lawyer today.
Thyroid Conditions and SSDI At a Glance
Can you get social security disability benefits with a thyroid condition? Like several other conditions, the answer isn’t cut and dry; it depends on a variety of factors. This includes the type of thyroid condition, how severe it is, how long it is expected to last, and how it impacts your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA).
To qualify, you’ll need to meet basic eligibility requirements during your SSDI application process (such as having enough work credits) and have a medically determinable impairment that meets or equals the SSA Blue Book listing. Since the process can be complicated, having a knowledgeable SSDI attorney can help you understand your eligibility and navigate each step.
Common Thyroid Diseases
The thyroid is a small gland and part of the endocrine system. It controls a variety of functions in the body, including metabolism. They can generally be categorized by an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), though some can cause both types of thyroid activity at different times. Common thyroid diseases include:
- Hashimoto’s Disease. An autoimmune condition associated with an underactive thyroid
- Congenital Hyperthyroidism. An overactive thyroid disorder starting from birth
- Graves’ Disease. An autoimmune condition that causes an overactive thyroid
- Thyroid Nodules. Lumps or growths on the thyroid that may cause hyper- or hypothyroidism
- Thyroiditis. Inflammation of the thyroid that can lead to either an underactive or an overactive thyroid
- Thyroid Cancer. Various types of thyroid-related cancers, which may be connected to (but do not cause) hyper- or hypothyroidism
Thyroid Disorder Symptoms and How They Can Impact Your Ability to Perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
According to the American Thyroid Association, an estimated 20 million people in the U.S. experience symptoms of thyroid disease. We’ll explore some of the most common symptoms and their impact on your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity.
Typical symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include:
- Rapid or irregular heart rate
- Difficulty sleeping
- Unexplained weight loss (or in some cases, weight gain)
- Sensitivity to heat
- Fatigue
- Tremors (especially in the hands)
- Muscle weakness
- Nervousness or irritability
- Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
- Mood swings
- Goiter (an enlarged thyroid that makes your neck look swollen)
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Cold sensitivity
- Skin changes (like dryness or coarseness)
- Puffy face
- Weight gain
- Heavier or irregular menstrual cycles
- Hoarse voice
- Muscle weakness, tenderness, stiffness, or achiness
- Thinning hair
- Bradycardia (slowing heart rate)
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Weight gain
- Constipation
Many thyroid conditions can be managed with medication, medical therapies, or surgery. However, some can be more serious and cause physical and mental conditions or complications that lead to an inability to work. Some, such as thyroid cancers, can be life-threatening.
Several thyroid conditions can also cause complications, such as irregular heartbeat (Afib), stroke, congestive heart failure, osteoporosis, mood disorders, heart disease, peripheral neuropathy, infertility, and more. When the symptoms or complications from thyroid conditions impact your ability to perform SGA, you may be eligible for SSDI benefits.
Meeting or Equaling a Blue Book Listing for a Thyroid Disorder
Thyroid disorders are listed under section 9.00 of the SSA Blue Book, categorized under endocrine disorders. The SSA evaluates eligibility for these conditions based on complications caused by the disorder. For example, thyroid-related changes to blood pressure and heart rate that cause cardiac dysfunction are evaluated under section 4.00 (Cardiovascular System). Similarly, thyroid-related strokes are evaluated under section 11.00 (Neurological), thyroid-related weight loss under 5.00 (Disorders of the Digestive System), and cognitive and mood impairments under 12.00 (Mental Disorders).
You may be able to equal the listing with documentation like detailed medical notes, lab testing or diagnostics, and treatment information from approved medical sources (AMS). A residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment may also be used to determine if you equal the a listing for a thyroid-related impairment.
Understanding Low Approval Rates and How Phillip M. Hendry Can Help
Low approval rates are common when it comes to SSDI application rates, especially when it comes to complex issues like thyroid conditions. Common reasons for denials include insufficient medical evidence and application errors.
This is where having a skilled SSDI lawyer on your side can help. Phillip M. Hendry Law can help you gather the correct medical evidence, ensure you provide sufficient details, and help you avoid common application mistakes, thereby increasing your chances of approval. However, even if your initial application is denied, your attorney can help you appeal the denial and determine if you qualify for any other benefits, such as supplemental Social Security Income (SSI).