Knowing what conditions do and do not meet the strict requirements of the Social Security Administration is not always easy. The SSA has very particular requirements to consider a health issue a disability.

According to the SSA, it assesses heart conditions by looking at your response to treatment, symptoms, laboratory tests and any limitations it has on your ability to function. It will consider the persistence and occurrences of the condition as well.

Persistence and reoccurrence

The SSA wants to see that it is likely your condition will continue for at least 12 months at a severe level. If it is not persistent, then the SSA looks at reoccurrence and whether it will continue to become a problem regularly during a 12-month time.

Medical documentation

The SSA must have medical evidence to approve your claim. If you do not receive regular health care, then you may be unable to receive benefits. The SSA requires test results and continuous medical reports over the course of this condition with tests from the last 12 months to make a determination.

You must also show that you are not responsive to treatment. You would have to prove that your disability exists even when you follow your doctor’s orders and take all required medications. The SSA will only approve a disability that exists despite treatment. If treatment makes it so you can work regularly without issues, then the SSA would likely reject your claim.

Limitations

The basis for most disability benefit approvals is that you can show you have limitations due to your condition. If you have a reduction in your ability to function and can prove that to the SSA, then it will strengthen your claim.