When there is a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), a New Jersey resident will need to think about the future and how the condition will impact their lives. Understanding what the disorder does and what they will face as it progresses can be difficult. Fortunately, many people with MS meet the federal requirements to receive Social Security disability. When the disorder leads to an inability to work, this can be a key to making ends meet and getting the medical care, therapy and treatment necessary to treat it. It is imperative to understand what MS is and how the Social Security Administration will evaluate it.
There are nerves fibers in the brain and spinal cord that are surrounded by a myelin sheath. MS damages this sheath. It is inflammatory, degenerative and chronic. The brain will have a disruption in nerve impulses and normal transmission will be hindered. It impairs muscle coordination, vision, balance, strength and sensation. MS can be mild to severe. For those who have a mild form of MS, there can be exacerbations and recovery. Those who have a more severe form of the disorder might not experience remissions.
The SSA will evaluate the person to determine how severe their condition is. If they have flaccid muscles, spasms, are uncoordinated, have trouble balancing, experience tremors, are physically fatigued, have muscular weakness, are dizzy, have tingling and are numb when trying to stand, balance, walk or perform fine movements, this will be key to a case. Symptoms that go beyond the disorder itself will be factored in when the SSA assesses physical and mental limitations. Difficulty sleeping, vision problems, attention issues, fatigue, inability to concentrate, memory lapses, and judgment problems are all factored in. The person must also be depressed and have mood swings.
Some people who have MS can hold down a job and live a relatively normal life. Others cannot and will seek SSD benefits due to the disorder and the problems that accompany it. When applying for SSD benefits or for appealing after being denied, it is wise to discuss the case with a law firm that is experienced in all areas of Social Security disability benefits. For people with MS, having legal help is key for SSD.
