Living with a heart problem makes life difficult. When it becomes severe enough to affect your ability to work, Social Security Disability Insurance may provide some financial relief.
Coronary artery disease remains one of the most common heart issues. According to the CDC, approximately 20.1 million adults have received this diagnosis. While it has no cure, lifestyle changes make a big difference in maintaining the disease. Unfortunately, not knowing you have the disease may lead to a life-changing heart attack or surgery.
Living with coronary artery disease
Also called atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease decreases the amount of blood flowing to the heart. This happens as calcium and fat deposits build up over time in the coronary arteries. Once the heart stops getting enough oxygen, nutrients and blood, it becomes inflamed. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain and fatigue. People living with this disease need to prevent more plaque from building up to limit additional damage. Two ways to achieve that include a healthy diet and exercise.
Qualifying for SSDI benefits
The SSDI lists coronary artery disease in its Blue Book Listing 4.04. Being on the list may not immediately mean you get benefits. You must submit specific medical evidence for benefit approval. Along with meeting medical requirements, the SSDI has associated work requirements. Eligibility includes the inability to work for a minimum of 12 months and having enough work credits.
Getting approved may not always come with a guarantee, which makes seeking outside to navigate the benefits process worth considering.
