Endocrine System Disorders and Disability Benefits

The endocrine system plays a crucial role in important functions such as digestion, reproduction and maintaining a stable internal physiological condition. The endocrine system is made up of the following:

• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland
• Adrenal glands
• Thyroid and parathyroid glands
• Reproductive glands

The endocrine glands secrete hormones, which regulate various functions throughout the body. The pancreas secretes insulin, which allows the body to regulate blood sugar levels. The thyroid gets instructions from the pituitary to secrete hormones, which determine the pace of chemical activity in the body. The delicate balance of endocrine secretions can be disturbed by stress, infection, or other factors. Endocrine system disorders occur when there is too much, too little or no hormones secreted. An individual suffering from these disorders may notice changes in weight, mood swings, increased fatigue and thirst or urination.

Determination of Disability Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers you disabled if:

1. You worked five out of the last ten years and paid into the system
2. Your illness or condition is severe enough to interfere with work activities
3. Your condition appears on the list of impairments maintained by the Social Security Administration
4. You are unable to perform any type of other work
5. Your disability lasts or is expected to last at least one year or result in death

When determining disability, the SSA also takes into account the person’s age, education, their work experience and both physical and mental conditions.

Endocrine Disorders Eligible for Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a listing of impairments that meet the disability standard for endocrine system disorders. They are categorized as follows:

• Thyroid disorders
• Hyperparathyroidism (over activity of the parathyroid glands)
• Hypoparathroidism (decreased function of the parathyroid glands)
• Neurohypophyseal insufficiency (deficiency in secretion from the pituitary gland)
• Hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex (adrenal cortex secretes too much of certain hormones)
• Diabetes mellitus (blood sugar levels are abnormally high when the body does not produce enough insulin)

Filing a Claim

If you are suffering from impairment, it is important that you receive treatment and have a doctor medically diagnose your condition before filing your claim. You cannot begin your application for disability benefits until you are out of work, or your earnings have been reduced to a certain amount. You should contact your local Social Security office and make an appointment with a claims representative. They will review your work history and decide whether you are eligible to obtain benefits from Social Security Disability or the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

Benefits Determination

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) monthly benefit amounts are based on your lifetime average earnings. You will continue to receive a disability benefit as long as you continue to be disabled. If your application is approved, you may receive a benefit payment, which ranges from $500 to $2000 a month. To be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must be blind, disable, or age 65 or over. You monthly income must be low and your financial resources must be worth less than $2000 or $3000 for a couple.

Claim Denials

If your claim is denied, you have the right to file an appeal within 60 days from the time you receive your denial letter. You can make a request for reconsideration where a different reviewer will look at your claim. The next step following the reconsideration stage is a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge. This is the stage where most cases will be awarded benefit if your case is presented in the proper manner with the required support for your claimed disability. If you lose your case at this level, you can have your case heard by the Social Security Appeals Council. Your last option is to file a lawsuit in federal district court.

Help From a Disability Lawyer

Benefits for legitimate claims are often denied and many people who apply on their own become discourage and intimidated. It is important to seek guidance from an attorney experienced in disability law who can help you obtain the benefits that you are entitled to.