Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis And Social Security Disability

Multiple sclerosis (also called MS) is an unpredictable disease that interrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and the body. Although several medications can slow the progress of MS, there currently is no cure, and the cause of the disease is still unknown.

Symptoms Of Multiple Sclerosis

Unlike some diseases that have consistent, recognizable symptoms, the symptoms of multiple sclerosis can manifest differently in each patient. MS is typically accompanied by loss of myelin in the brain, cranial nerves and spinal cord, which causes the following symptoms:

• Disorganization
• Difficulty walking and talking
• Persistent fatigue (not just tiredness)
• Partial or total blindness
• Partial or total deafness
• Mood or behavior disorders

Can I Work With MS?

Because MS symptoms can vary drastically from one person to another, the disease affects people’s ability to work differently. MS can be dormant for a long time or it can progress rapidly.

Some symptoms might make you question your ability to continue working. If those symptoms subside, however, you may wonder why you worried about your ability to work. Likewise, some individuals are able to continue working for years after receiving an MS diagnosis, while others stop working when they are diagnosed or suffer from their first major exacerbation.

Receiving SSDI Benefits For Multiple Sclerosis

Individuals who have been diagnosed with MS but do not exhibit the typical symptoms — such as individuals who do not have muscle weakness or significant disorganization of motor function — may still qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

In all cases, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is particular about the way in which medical information is presented. Unfortunately, receiving an MS diagnosis from your doctor may not be enough to receive SSDI benefits. Instead, it’s critical to work with a lawyer who has experience presenting MS claims, which can help ensure that your diagnosis is presented to the SSA in a way that increases the chances of having a claim approved.

If you are unable to work because of multiple sclerosis, trust the attorneys at Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler to help. We can help you receive the SSDI benefits you need. Learn more by scheduling a free consultation. We can be reached through our contact form or by calling 704-594-4317.