The Social Security Administration announced a new list of endocrine disorders covered by the Social Security Disability Insurance program. The new list makes it easier for people with these disorders to receive
Social Security Disability benefits.
What is an Endocrine Disorder?
An endocrine disorder is a disease that causes an imbalance within the body’s endocrine system. The endocrine system produces hormones that help the body regulate processes for:
- Breathing
- Fluid and chemical balances
- Weight control
Endocrine system disorders can cause a variety of complications for the body and affect the major glands of the endocrine system, including the pituitary gland, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal and the pancreas.
What Is Covered?
The Social Security Administration’s regulations list endocrine disorders generally and by the impairments they may cause in other body systems. These systems are categorized here under the gland within the endocrine system that is affected:
- Pituitary Gland: Water and electrolyte imbalance in the kidneys leading to diabetes insipidus. These issues fall under recurrent dehydration.
- Thyroid Disorders: Cardiac dysfunctions caused by thyroid disorders are covered, as well as thyroid-related weight loss, hypertension and mood disorders, including anxiety.
- Parathyroid Disorders: Parathyroid-related osteoporosis, cataracts due to elevated calcium in the blood, kidney failure and low blood calcium causing nerve and muscle issues are also listed.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Adrenal-related osteoporosis that affects walking and upper-body, adrenal-related hypertension issues, adrenal-related weight loss and weight loss disorders may be covered.
- Diabetes and Pancreatic Gland Disorders: Benefits may be available for people with Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia.
How Do I Apply for Benefits?
People wishing to obtain Social Security Disability benefits for an endocrine disorder must apply and go through the Social Security Administration’s evaluation process, even if their disorder is on the list. The application and evaluation process can take several months – sometimes even longer than a year – so it is good to get started as soon as possible. Moreover, understanding the Social Security Administration’s voluminous regulations can be difficult, but an experienced Social Security Disability benefits attorney can help you understand what is required to make a claim and assist you with the application process.
Contact a New Jersey Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you want to know more about your rights or face an uphill battle getting the SSD benefits you deserve in the state of New Jersey, contact us today for your free consultation.
