If you have a medical condition that makes it impossible to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security’s Blue Book of Impairments lists many physical disabilities.
Conditions that meet the criteria listed in the Blue Book are automatically considered “disabled,” as defined by the SSA. However, if a condition does not meet any of the listed criteria, the individual may still be considered disabled if they can prove their condition is as severe as a listed condition.
What are the requirements listed for a cardiovascular impairment?
The Blue Book considers a “cardiovascular impairment” any disorder that negatively impacts how the circulatory system functions and results from one or more of the following consequences of heart disease:
- Chronic heart failure/ventricular dysfunction.
- Syncope or near syncope caused by inadequate cerebral perfusion from cardiac causes.
- Discomfort caused by myocardial ischemia.
- Central cyanosis caused by right-to-left shunt etc.
There are many cardiovascular conditions listed in the Blue Book including:
- Chronic heart failure
- Ischemic heart disease
- Arrhythmias (recurrent)
- Heart transplants
- Aneurysm of aorta
- Symptomatic congenital heart disease
To qualify for SSD benefits, you must provide documentation to prove that you have the symptoms and meet the criteria listed for your condition in the Blue Book. Medical records from the cardiologist in charge of your care and an independent medical examination may be required to establish your condition. A San Diego attorney specializing in SSD benefits can make sure you provide the SSA with the information it needs to make a fair decision regarding your benefits.