Chrohn's Diseases

As the Basis of a Claim for Social Security Disability or Long Term Disability Benefits

What is Crohn’s Disease?
 

Crohn’s disease is a lifelong autoimmune disorder that inflames the bowel. The reason it is called an autoimmune disease is because it is a product of the body’s immune system attacking the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, causing inflammation. This disease can potentially affect the entire length of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus.
 

What causes Crohn’s Disease?
 

Although, doctors are not sure what causes Crohn’s disease, it is believed that if a close family member has the disease or if you are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent your chances of acquiring the disease are higher.
 

Doctors also note that individuals who smoke are at a far greater risk of contracting the disease than non-smokers.
 

What are the symptoms of Crohn’s Disease?
 

The symptoms of this disease will generally come in the following forms: abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may have blood in it, and may come at the frequency of more than 10 times per day), vomiting, inexplicable weight loss, and in some cases symptoms may include skin rashes, arthritis, eye inflammation, mouth sores, bowel blockages, anal fissures, and openings between organs.
 

How is Crohn’s Disease treated?
 

There is currently no known cure for Crohn’s disease. With the lack of a cure, the goal of treatment in Crohn’s disease has been to stop the symptoms, and prevent remission. Treatment will usually begin with a regimen of antibiotics, to get rid of any infections, aminosalicylate, to reduce inflammation and corticosteroids.
 

Next individuals with the disease are encouraged to make several lifestyle changes. Such changes include dietary adjustments, maintaining a constant healthy level of hydration, and quitting smoking.
 

In extreme cases it may be necessary to perform surgery to remove parts of the intestines.
 

Can Crohn’s Disease form the basis for my Social Security or Long Term Disability Claim? 

Yes. Disability claims are based on the restrictions and functional limitations that a person has a result of their medical condition.  This requires proof of the disability.  
 

Nevertheless, in order to successfully pursue a claim for your Social Security Disability benefits, it will be necessary to establish a pattern regarding your debilitating disease that will be apparent to the Social Security Administration when they review your case.
 

Documenting Your Disability
 

It is important to document how this debilitating medical condition impacts makes you unable to perform a job and function normally in your daily life.  This will be helpful in conveying what kind of impact this condition is having on you and how functionally limited you are.
 

Help from Your Doctors and Health Care Providers
 

Arguably the most essential way to prove your disability is through the opinions of your health care providers that are backed up by medical records.  Based on our experience, we will be able to get the cooperation and support you need from your doctors / health care providers.
 

Conclusion
 

At The Rosenblum Law Firm, we understand how hard it is to deal with this confusing and time-consuming system, especially when you are simultaneously dealing with a serious illness as Crohn’s disease. 
 

We have helped many other clients in the successful pursuit of their disability claims and we can help you, too. Please call us at 1-866-634-9849 or email us by clicking here.