This post discusses Social Security disability benefits for Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If you are unable to work due to chronic venous insufficiency read on for how SSA will evaluate your claim for disability.
The below is not offered as medical advice regarding thrombotic syndrome. If you are having symptoms of venous insufficiency, please seek medical treatment.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in one of more of the deep veins in your body, usually the legs. DVT can cause swelling and pain or no symptoms at all. Blood clots can be caused by anything that prevents your blood from circulating properly. Via The Mayo Clinic.
Surgery, cancer treatment, a blood-clotting disorder, hormone therapy, child birth, varicose veins or congestive heart failure could all be possible causes. Via WebMD. Treatment for deep venous thrombosis is focused on stopping the clot from getting bigger or moving to your lungs (pulmonary emboli) and preventing you from having blood clots in the future. Blood thinners (Coumadin and Heparin) are usually given for six months but your treatment may be longer or shorter depending on the cause of the DVT. Blood thinners can thin the blood too much so regular blood testing is needed. Via NIH.
May-Thurner syndrome (iliac vein compression syndrome) is a rare condition in which the right common iliac artery compresses the left common iliac vein against the lumbar spine causing DVT. This variant has been shown to be present in over 20% of the population; however, it is rarely considered in the differential diagnosis of DVT, particularly in patients with other risk factors. Via NIH.
Social Security Disability Benefits for Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
In order to be found eligible for disability benefits by SSA, you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death, or which has lasted or can be expected to last for at least 12 months. For most people, a DVT can be resolved quickly and they are able to go on with their lives. But for those with recurrent DVTs and underlying health issues that cause DVTs, the battle is ongoing.
The Social Security Administration can evaluate Deep Vein Thrombosis different ways depending on the cause of the DVT. Listing 4.11 Chronic venous insufficiency can be used. This listing requires Extensive brawny edema involving at least two-thirds of the leg between the ankle and knee or the distal one-third of the lower extremity between the ankle and hip OR Superficial varicosities, stasis dermatitis, and either recurrent ulceration or persistent ulceration that has not healed following at least 3 months of prescribed treatment.
If you meet the above listing, you are in excruciating pain. This listing, as with most listings, is difficult to meet. You may not be able to work long before you meet this listing. In my clients, recurrent DVTs are caused by chronic underlying health issues that only worsen with time. Also, post thrombotic syndrome can be a severe impediment. If those underlying health issues are severe enough to cause recurrent DVTs, you may be approved for Social Security Disability.
The Social Security Administration can also use the Medical Vocational Guidelines (Grids) to find a claimant disabled if DVT restricts your ability to perform work at higher than the sedentary level if you are 50 years of age or older and do not have a history of sedentary work.
If you are unable to work (engage in substantial gainful activity), file a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as soon as possible at your local SSA office or online. The Bishop Law Firm represents clients in their disability claim and can help you gather the medical evidence needed for your case. We do not get paid unless you win!
Also read Social Security Disability Process