What Type of Benefit is Social Security Disability Insurance. Walking or doing yoga can help the blood flow and maintain a healthy heart, so this may be something a person should consider if they dont already exercise lightly. Symptoms may be similar to neuropathic POTS and hyperadrenergic POTS. Those with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) suffer from dizzy spells and may even faint if they change positions abruptly. A hearing officer for the Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate the medical records and evidence presented by the applicant to determine whether benefits will be allowed. You have to provide evidence to substantiate your disability claim, so you have to provide medical records that document several things, including: Your doctor should include statements that also indicate: If you cannot prove the severity of your condition by using a Blue Book listing, you may still qualify for benefits through a medical-vocational allowance, which is sometimes called a compassionate allowance. Minhas, with her 8-month-old puppy Murphy, says she felt relief after getting diagnosed with POTS, a blood circulation disorder, and her health is improving slowly with treatment. They are independent attorneys or advocates who pay a fee to be listed on the website and have their names provided, on request, to website users. OI coupled with an increased heart rate indicates that the person has POTS. Is applicant receiving treatment from a doctor? "Even though 90% of people with POTS are females, males actually get diagnosed with POTS an average two years faster than females," says Lauren Stiles, who was diagnosed with POTS in her early 30s and is the co-founder and president of Dysautonomia International, a nonprofit patient advocacy and research group. Does Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome Automatically Qualify You for Disability Benefits? : This type of POTS arises from damaged nerves, presumably due to an autoimmune disorder. The inability to manage POTS symptoms could lead to disability or death. Briefly Describe Your Case: document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Learn more about Social Security Disability and Long Term Disability Insurance, as well as appealing denials and how an attorney can help. If improperly diagnosed and treated, POTS can contribute to disability at an early age. If you can earn more than $1,090 in a month, you are not eligible for supplemental security income. It doesnt have an exact listing for POTS, but a match may be found by comparing the symptoms experienced with other listings in the Blue Book depending on the part of the body where the symptoms affect. Your Name: Doing yoga or walking can also help by increasing blood flow and maintaining a healthy heart. Problems in focusing Shaking Weakness Types of POTS There are mainly four types of POTS including: Neuropathic POTS: This type of POTS arises from damaged nerves, presumably due to an autoimmune disorder. You Need Help With: In such cases, applying for SSDI may prove to be helpful to a patient, as they may be able to qualify for financial assistance. Most people currently on disability were denied benefits on their first application too. Adults with PoTS may be entitled to the following benefits: Universal credit Statutory sick pay Help with health costs Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Motability Exemption from Road Tax Disabled railcard Disabled 'blue badges' (car parking badge) Carer's Allowance Council Tax reduction These can include: Getting a proper diagnosis of this condition can be difficult. However, some can be disabling and eventually lead to death because so many body systems can be impacted. It is important to list and describe ALL of your symptoms in detail. This means your physician must submit a statement that verifies the seriousness of your POTS symptoms. Social Security Disability Insurance does not cover temporary disabilities or partial disabilities. Sluggish thinking, difficulty concentrating, or forgetfulness, Sweating, shaking, nervousness, or jittery, Insomnia or irregular sleep patterns (frequent waking). To determine the SSDI eligibility, it is also important to keep careful track of time and the length of the disability, so that the hearing officer can analyze the date of the diagnosis of the disability. Doctors focus on treating the POTS symptoms rather than treating the actual condition. It is more common in women compared to men, affecting over 450,000 people in the United States. This is because signals to the brain that coordinate the release of hormones that regulate heart rate are interrupted. If you miss this deadline, you must begin an entirely new application. have extensive experience with helping clients file for disability benefits for POTS. "Just standing up to make a sandwich, my heart rate would be 120," recalls Minhas, a 54-year-old nurse who lives in San Diego. When you file your claim, the Social Security Administration will assess your physical, cognitive, and mental impairments to discern whether they prevent you from working. POTS Diagnosis Offers Hope And Treatment For People With Long - NPR Neither this site, nor any lawyer or advocate associated with it, is affiliated in any way with, or endorsed by, the Social Security Administration. The same goes for beta blockers, another class of drugs that also lowers heart rate, he says. Copyright 2023 Berke Law Firm, P.A. POTS has overlapping features with chronic fatigue syndrome, including fatigue and brain fog, and experts who treat it say POTS has had some of the same challenges as CFS in gaining recognition. These factors can lead to different types of POTS. Subscribing lawyers and advocates are not employees, owners, operators or agents of this website. If improperly diagnosed and treated, POTS can contribute to disability at an early age. POTS is a type of dysautonomia, which stems from dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system. The disease's symptoms and complications can make it difficult for sufferers to enjoy leisure activities or accomplish daily tasks. If you suffer from a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which is dysautonomia, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. POTS is a condition in which a change from a lying or seated position to a standing position causes an increase in heart rate (tachycardia), without any simultaneous drop in blood pressure. The damaged nerves are responsible for controlling the blood vessels in the limbs and abdomen. If you are well enough to earn income, then you are no longer considered disabled. This is an Attorney Advertisement Not an Attorney Referral ServiceCopyright DisabilityBenefitsCenter.org 2023. The impact of the disease depends upon several factors, including the general health of the patient. Your medical records should include an evaluation of the condition, prescribed medications, and other treatment records necessary to substantiate your claim fordisability benefits for POTS. Applying for Disability | Standing Up To POTS Chung says he prescribes ivabradine to some patients, but it's not right for everyone, since it may exacerbate fatigue, lightheadedness or other typical POTS symptoms. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) - AskJAN.org Your Email: How to apply for the Disability Benefits; Ensure that everything related to the application is filed correctly the first time. In POTS patients, the nerve that regulates blood flow isn't working, Chung says, and not enough blood circulates to the brain. Because medical records are vital evidence in a disability determination, it is crucial for an applicant to receive medical treatment regularly. Your functional impairments will be assessed to determine eligibility for disability benefits. Social Security Disabling Conditions How You Can Get Benefits for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) If you suffer from a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which is dysautonomia, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. However, there is a limit on the money you can earn while receiving disability benefits. Created to fast-track the disability claims of applicants that suffer from the worst illnesses and diseases, the Compassionate Allowance program provides financial assistance much faster than the claims processed under the standard system. The criteria in the Listing of Impairments are applicable to evaluation of claims for disability benefits under the Social Security disability insurance program or payments under the SSI program. 2023 All rights reserved. For this reason, those with POTS may be eligible Social Security Disability benefits. With proper legal assistance, you could receive a decision from SSA in as little as 30-90 days, but every case is different. Making History! as a trusted partner in the legal process. What Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability? Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from this use of this website. The determination will, if successful, qualify the applicant to receive SSDI benefits. Apart from lightheadedness, people with POTS experience fainting, increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure and other symptoms may include: There are mainly four types of POTS including: The treatment of POTS varies based on the cause of the disease, the severity of the symptoms and the health of the patient. Doing yoga or walking can also help by increasing blood flow and maintaining a healthy heart. If you are suffering from a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, or dysautonomia, you may be be able to file a claim for. "Many patients do get better, significantly better," says Dr. Pam Taub, a cardiologist who treats Minhas at UC San Diego. While the actual effects of dysautonomia depend upon the specific disorder and the individual, many dysautonomic disorders can be effectively managed. Is Pots a chronic illness or disability? : r/POTS - Reddit POTS often comes on suddenly following viral infection, though there are also other triggers, such as a concussion, for instance. The Social Security Administration (SSA) processes disability claims through the same system, which requires applicants to submit a claim that includes the results of diagnostic tests and detailed descriptions of treatment programs. Consult experienced disability lawyers in Florida. What Are Signs That You May Be Approved For Disability? Unfortunately, there isnt a cure. NIH Director Francis Collins says the goal is to "identify the causes of long COVID, to develop ways of treating individuals who don't fully recover, and, ultimately, to prevent the disorder.". POTS is among those disorders. For months, she and her doctors struggled to understand what was behind her fatigue and rapid heartbeat, among other symptoms. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. It's a common form of dysautonomia that affects millions of people. Unfortunately, autonomic disorders (including POTS) are not currently a listed category under the Social Security Administration. The underlying body systems that are affected by POTS symptoms may entitle someone to disability benefits. Benefits will be continued during this process, but any benefits paid during the appeals process must be repaid to the SSA should the final decision be unfavorable. As a result, the ability of the autonomic nervous system to regulate blood flow is damaged. If you are facing one of these situations, please do not hesitate in reaching out. With neuropathic POTS syndrome, the nervous system fails to respond properly, causing pooling of blood in the lower extremities instead of being pumped to the heart. You might have a fainting spell one day, and then recover enough to return to work five days later. Applicants must meet both income and asset limits. If you are under 24, you must have worked at least 1.5 years in the three years before disability. The encouraging news is there are a host of medications and physical therapy that can help. Because the autonomous nervous system controls and affects a large number of quite different organs and organ systems, any dysfunction can have quite varied symptoms depending on which part of the body the POTS dysfunction affects. Symptoms can be highly variable and show up intermittently over time. Jennifer Minhas had been a nurse for years when she contracted COVID-19 in 2020. How to Qualify for Long COVID Disability Benefits - Verywell Health What Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability? If you do, please be aware that, while we use commercially reasonable means to protect your information, such information can never be 100% secure. Still, even before COVID-19, there were often long delays between the onset of symptoms and getting a diagnosis. Her approach fits with some preliminary research from Vanderbilt University that found POTS symptoms get worse after meals rich in carbohydrates. Using the medical-vocational allowance, you prove that your symptoms are severe enough to keep you from seeking and maintaining gainful employment while you dont meet the listed conditions set forth in the Blue Book. The most common form, neuropathic POTS, is caused by damage to the small fiber nerves that regulate the constriction of the blood vessels in the limbs and abdomen. Getting Disability Benefits for POTS | Is POTS A Disability? In addition, she continued to feel a tightness in her chest, and the brain fog was so intense at times, she says, she couldn't remember a four-digit code for her phone. But in many cases, POTS is a chronic condition, says Dr. Mitch Miglis, an autonomic disorder specialist at Stanford University, and patients require ongoing care. Besides lifestyle changes like exercise and diet, a doctor treating POTS may suggest that a patient make other modifications to their lifestyle. But this has begun to change as researchers "have shown that there is real biology behind POTS," Taub says. It is important to obtain documentation of your condition and disabilities from a qualified medical doctor who has experience or specializes in conditions like POTS. Do I Need A Lawyer To Apply For Disability? She says this is an example of how people in the POTS community "advise each other" and share information. In order to receive SSDI benefits, the applicant must prove that the symptoms of the POTS disability are severe enough, and must also prove that the person is otherwise qualified. The SSA may order a medical evaluation from a physician that they choose at their expense to get additional information and to confirm the severity of your condition. Is POTS A Disability? | Ortiz Law Firm You acknowledge that any information you have provided above can be sent electronically to potential independent attorneys & advocates who pay a fee to subscribe to this website. People who suffer from POTS often have a decreased quality of life. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a medical condition that affects circulation of the blood. But all this activity came to a halt. Vision may become blurry when you stand up or perform any sudden physical movement. Yes, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) can be considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA) if an applicant is able to meet the administration's definition of and criteria for disability outlined in their Blue Book. Symptoms can wax and wane over time, but he agrees that "most people get better with treatment.". But ivabradine enables them to start moving aground again, Taub says. Talk to us. Most successful disability cases are won on the basis of several conditions presented by the applicant, Include all symptoms. Maintain a good relationship with a supportive physician as you will need documentation of your illness upon review (typically every five years). Appealing without the assistance of an attorney or advocate, Waiting for a letter from the Social Security Administration past the 90 days of filing deadline. The primary symptoms of orthostatic intolerance are lightheadedness, fainting, and an uncomfortable, rapid increase in heartbeat. "Normally I'm very active. In the months after she first got sick with COVID-19 in March 2020, Jennifer Minhas developed a cluster of mysterious symptoms. Detailed descriptions of the tasks performed, Names, addresses, phone numbers, and treatment dates of your, Personal information about marriages, divorces, and children, Financial information. For all other listings, the evidence must show that the impairment has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months. POTS disabilitymay result from such symptoms. In summary, adolescents with POTS can progress toward recovery with multidisciplinary care that includes patient and family education and a . Disability Benefits for POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome She spends much of the day in bed or on the sofa, because the fatigue, headaches and lightheadedness have been so intense. Simultaneously you should earn enough work credits in your working period before getting disabled. Doctors may even suggest wearing medical compression socks to encourage the blood to flow up the legs. As per the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), POTS disability is not specified on the list of disabling medical conditions. currently receive social Security benefits? Take a little time to celebrate the fruits of your labor. Long walks and physical movements can become difficult. These tests include an electorcardiogram (ECG) or an active standing test. : In this type of POTS, a person faces extremely low blood volume. Many times, the illness is not curable. Given the increase in heart rate and other symptoms, people suffering from POTS may find it hard to engage in any kind of physical activity or movement, and this may severely affect or prevent their ability to work. POTS experts at other academic medical centers including UC San Diego, where Minhas is being treated also are reporting an uptick in cases. SSDI does NOT limit your assets or unearned income (spouses income, investments, or interest). Once their exercise tolerance improves, "they no longer need to rely on the drug," she says. It is more common in women compared to men, affecting over 450,000 people in the United States. Because POTS often develops minor symptoms, living with the medical condition does not automatically qualify an applicant for Social Security disability benefits. Some common symptoms associated with POTS include: If your POTS symptoms are severe and you are unable to continue working or do not expect that you will be unable to work for at least the next 12 months, then you may be able to obtain a disability benefit from the SSA. Not alleging mental conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Whether you personally identify it as being a disability or you being disabled is subjective though. It's been known among POTS patients that eating high-carb meals can make you feel worse, says Stiles of Dysautonomia International. Advocates in the POTS community such as Stiles say that given the significant number of cases related to COVID-19, it's essential that some of these research dollars be dedicated to understanding autonomic disorders. The Tilt Table Test, lab tests (bloodwork), digestive system testing, and x-rays are common examples of evidence that are considered by the SSA. "Young women complaining about multiple symptoms are often told 'it's all in your head' before an autonomic nerve disorder like POTS would even be considered," Stiles says. Work history. The applicant cannot do the work they did before the medical condition occurred; The applicant cannot adjust to the condition and do any other work available in the local economy; The medical disability is expected to last for at least one year, or to result in death. In addition to this, an experienced lawyer will ensure that all medical evidence and assessments are done carefully and correctly. It may also be due to bureaucratic red tape, error, and obfuscation. They can also help make sure that individuals are prepared for their RFC in the event they need to take the assessment. Can I Help Someone Apply For Disability Benefits? In addition, the applicant must have a certain number of Social Security work credits based on either wages or self-employment income. If you are suffering from a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, or dysautonomia, you may be be able to file a claim for disability for POTS. Our team has assisted hundreds of clients with complex disability claims. The legal professionals of Berke Law Firm, P.A. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome or POTS is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system (dysautonomia) whereby your blood pools in your lower body when you try to stand up. To be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, applicants must provide medical documentation of their condition as well as proof that they cannot work due to the severity of their symptoms. Experts say a small slice of people with long-haul COVID-19 have symptoms of dysautonomia, though its prevalence is unknown. Before you apply, please review the basics to make sure you understand what to expect during the application process. As a result, people with POTS may experience an inferior quality of life and difficulty maintaining employment. There is no specific listing for dysautonomia, but there are listings for the different body systems that are impacted by the disorder. Submitting a disability claim with the SSA can result in months of waiting for a decision. On average, an individual with the disorder that has health insurance pays out about $1,500 per year for the condition. EDIT: Someone else mentioned it too, but POTS does qualify as a disability in terms of qualifying for accommodations, either with school or work. The autonomic nervous system oversees many of the bodys functions, including body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. A medical provider must make detailed records of the severity of the POTS Syndrome and Disability. Describe your worst days in all paperwork and testimony. By submitting a request for a free evaluation, I acknowledge that I understand and agree to the disclaimer and privacy policy. A variety of symptoms are associated with POTS, which may . Hannah Joy January 21, 2022 POTS, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, is a condition that affects a person's blood flow. Our disabilities spring from those worst days. Therefore, doctors often concentrate on treating the symptoms of POTS disability instead of curing the actual condition. At first, her primary care doctor thought it was anxiety. Symptoms caused by POTS include lack of focus, exhaustion, and headaches. In 2023, the federal benefit rate was $914 for individuals and $1,371 for couples. Such changes may include altering the type of work that the patient can perform. Does My Condition Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits? You may feel exhausted after physical activity. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a medical condition that affects circulation of the blood. While some argue that not every day is awful, chronic illnesses wax and wane and sometimes progress. A dysfunctional autonomous nervous system is also called dysautonomia. POTS can meet requirements for benefits, but also may not. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome | POTS | SSDI The autonomic nervous system is part of the bodys ability to control body functions through unconscious and automatic methods. The drug has helped Minhas, the nurse in San Diego, although she pays for it out of pocket because her insurance company denied coverage. If you have been suffering from a. that has lasted, or is expected to last, for more than twelve months, there is some important information that you should know. What is known, though, is that there is a backlog of patients waiting to be seen, Chung says. If you suffer from a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which is dysautonomia, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Many of these conditions have symptoms that are universal or that can cross over. One of the issues with POTS is the more serious symptoms might not last long. If the benefits are denied a second time, you will get a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. Her symptoms became so severe that she stopped working. Physicians can prescribe various medications to treat symptoms, and there's some new evidence that a drug called ivabradine can help lower heart rate.