Seizure disorder, also known as epilepsy, can present unique challenges that can affect a patient’s life on a day-to-day basis. If you have seizure disorder and the symptoms are interfering with your ability to work, you may qualify to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) program.
The effects of this disease must be severe enough to prevent you from working and are evaluated on a case-by-case basis before benefit checks are issued. Before applying for SSD benefits, take some time to familiarize yourself with the disabling effects of this disorder and talk to an experienced SSD attorney about the aspects of your condition that the Social Security Administration (SSA) may evaluate when reviewing your claim.
Disabling Effects of Seizure Disorder
Seizures occur when abnormal brain function causes a dysfunction in the way signals are transmitted between the brain and parts of the body. Children and adults who are diagnosed with seizure disorder often find their symptoms growing worse over time.
It can be impossible to gauge when and where a seizure will occur, and how severe or long-lasting the episode may be. Seizure victims can be in grave danger if the episode occurs while eating, driving, using heavy equipment, exercising, crossing the street, or other high-risk situations. In addition to the violent convulsions, additional disabling symptoms of epilepsy include:
- Unusual behavior
- Emotional instability
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness
- Uncontrolled movements
- Repetitive clapping and other movements
- Staring
- Tremors
- Impaired or distorted sensory responses
- Tongue biting
- Loss of bladder control
Hiring an Attorney to Prove Seizure Disability
Seizure disorder victims may have trouble clearly defining their epileptic status to the decision-makers at the Social Security Administration. It can also be difficult to cut through the red tape and get straight answers regarding the SSD application process. For these and other similar reasons, SSD applicants often hire disability attorneys to help them apply and/or appeal.
Having a lawyer on your side can be very beneficial as you move forward with filing a claim. You’ll find that experienced legal professionals who work with the SSA on a regular basis know exactly what strategies to apply to get your benefits approved and your checks started in a timely manner.
To learn more about the benefits of hiring an SSD lawyer, please use our online lawyer directory to search for a professional near you.
Please explore our website and if you have questions or need further assistance, please e-mail the SSD Law Resource Center by completing the form to the right. We are here to help.