ALSTROM SYNDROME & WINNING SSD BENEFITS

WHAT IS ALSTROM SYNDROME?

Alstrom syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects many systems in the body. It develops over time and the symptoms of the disease are not the same in every person. The condition affects vision, hearing, heart function, and metabolism. It also impacts major organs such as the liver and kidneys. This wide effect makes the condition complex and serious.

Alstrom syndrome is known for affecting vision, hearing, metabolism, and major organs. Many individuals experience progressive vision loss early in life, often followed by hearing loss as they age. Heart disease is also common, particularly a condition called dilated cardiomyopathy, which causes the heart to become enlarged and less effective at pumping blood. Alongside this, people with Alström syndrome frequently develop obesity and Diabetes Type II, sometimes at a young age. Over time, the condition can also impact the liver, kidneys, lungs, and bladder, making it a complex and serious disorder to manage.

If you have Alstrom syndrome, then you should file an application for disability benefits. Our SSD law firm can help you throughout the five step disability review process. Therefore, contact us today.

FACTS ABOUT ALSTROM SYNDROME

Alstrom syndrome is an extremely rare genetic condition that affects a very small number of people worldwide. Experts estimate that fewer than one thousand individuals live with this condition across the globe. In the United States, the number of known cases remains very low, with only a few hundred people with the disease. The rarity of the condition often leads to delayed diagnosis and limited public awareness.

Alstrom syndrome affects both males and females equally. Symptoms often begin in early childhood, but continue to develop over time. Vision problems often appear in infancy, sometimes within the first year. Hearing loss usually follows during childhood and continues to worsen. Many people, as stated earlier, also develop heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. These symptoms do not appear all at once, which makes the condition harder to recognize.

Not every person shows all symptoms of the condition. However, if you have organ damage, then it can become life threatening without proper care. The length of your life will depend on your treatment and whether or not not you can avoid organ damage. However, early treatment from your doctor can improve the length and qualify of your life.

TREATMENT FOR ALSTROM SYNDROME

There is no cure for Alstrom syndrome, but treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, protecting your organs, and slowing the disease. Because the condition affects many systems, treatment requires cooperation between multiple doctors. Your individual treatment plan will adjust over time as new symptoms develop.

Vision loss often requires early intervention with low vision services. Hearing loss may require hearing aids as it progresses. Heart disease requires close monitoring. For example, you may need medications to support heart function and reduce strain on your heart. Diabetes management often includes strict blood sugar control through medication, diet, and monitoring.

Organ health requires constant evaluation due to the risk of liver and kidney disease. Doctors may run routine lab tests and imaging to track changes. Your lung and bladder issues may also need medical support. Nutrition plays a critical role, especially due to the risk of obesity and insulin resistance.

Long term care depends on early and consistent treatment. Regular follow up visits allow doctors to respond to changes quickly. Support services also help individuals maintain independence and daily function. These may include communication tools and educational support. While the condition is serious, ongoing care can extend life and improve stability.

HOW TO APPLY FOR SSDI AND SSI BENEFITS

If you cannot work because of Alstrom syndrome, then you can apply for disability benefits through the SSA. The easiest way to file an application is on the SSA’s website. You can also file an application over phone. But for that you will need to make an appointment by calling your local office. The SSA no longer accepts visitors who walk into their offices.

If you need to file an application, then start by gathering your information. First, you need medical information, which includes your medical records, doctor names, and hospital details. You will also need your work history for the past five years. The SSA reviews both your medical condition and your work background.

When you complete the SSA forms, describe your symptoms in clear language. Explain how Usher syndrome limits your daily activities. Share how often you attend medical appointments. Describe any negative impact from your medications. After you submit your claim, the SSA reviews your file. They may request additional records. They may schedule a free exam with a doctor they choose. If the SSA schedules an exam, then you must attend or they will deny your claim for benefits.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SSDI AND SSI BENEFITS?

The SSA offers two main disability programs. These programs are SSDI and SSI benefits. Both benefits require that you meet the medical definition of disability. However, for SSDI you must have a work history. For SSI benefits, you must meet the financial and asset rules.

SSDI stands for Social Security Disability Insurance. You qualify based on your work record and the taxes you paid while working. If you worked 40 hours a week for 5 years out of the last 10 years, then you probably qualify for SSDI benefits.

SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income. This program is based on financial need. You do not need a work history to qualify. If your income and resources are below the SSA limits, then you may qualify for SSI.

The medical standard for both programs is the same. You must show that you cannot perform substantial gainful activity (work). Your condition must last at least twelve months or be expected to result in death. Some people meet the rules for both programs at the same and they win concurrent benefits. If you are unsure which SSA program to apply for, then call one of our disability attorneys to review your situation.

ALSTROM SYNDROME IS AN SSA COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCE

Alstrom syndrome qualifies under SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program. This program identifies conditions that meet SSA’s disability standards. It allows for faster review of your disability application and reduces the wait time for benefits. However, you need to notify the SSA that you have a medical condition that qualifies under the program.

Because Alstrom syndrome affects so many body systems, it is life threatening. The impact on your daily function should be clear and discussed in your medical records by your doctors. Make sure that your doctor writes a letter to the SSA stating that you cannot work due to your symptoms. This makes it easier to meet SSA’s approval criteria.

Faster approval can reduce the financial stress of not working for you and your family. It also allows quicker access to medical care and support. This is important for a condition that requires ongoing treatment and has no cure. If you need help, then contact our SSD law firm today.

WHAT WE DO TO HELP YOU WIN SSDI & SSI BENEFITS 

You do not need to try to win benefits for Alstrom syndrome on your own. We can help file your application for SSD benefits. That way, you can focus on your health and spending time with your family. Our attorneys and staff can:

• Send you the paperwork you need to become our client
• Help you file your application for SSD and SSI benefits
• Inform the SSA they should pay you under the Compassionate Allowance Rules
• File an appeal if you receive a denial
• Help you confirm your SSA doctor exam
• Request a Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge
• Prepare you to testify at your SSA hearing
• Represent you at your hearing
• Question the expert witnesses
• Read about job expert testimony
• Learn about medical expert testimony
• Request review of an SSA decision with the Appeals Council
• Request review of an Appeals Council denial in Federal Court

If you file your application for benefits on Social Security’s website, then you have 6 months to complete it. However, if you have a serious condition that automatically wins SSD benefits like Alstrom syndrome, then you should not wait to finish your application. Once you submit your application online, the SSA may send you an application summary in the mail. If they do, then you must sign the summary and mail it back.

HIRE THE BEST SSD LAW FIRM TO WIN YOUR SSD BENEFITS

Filing for disability benefits can be difficult. Even with a serious medical condition like Alstrom syndrome, the SSA may initially deny your claim. This could happen if you lack proper medical records. A disability attorney with decades of experience can help you gather the medical evidence needed to support your case.

An experienced attorney understands how the SSA evaluates medical conditions. They know how to prove your case is a Compassionate Allowance claim to the SSA. If your case is coded correctly from the start, then delays are less likely. Additionally, your attorney knows how to present evidence that clearly demonstrates your limitations. Our SSD law firm has extensive experience handling disability claims that involve severe medical conditions. Additionally, our legal team understands the challenges you face.

When you work with us, we guide you through each step of the five step disability review process. We help prepare your application and respond to requests from the SSA. Also, we help you collect your medical records. Finally, you pay us only if we win your benefits. Our attorney fee comes from your past due disability benefits. Learn about attorneys fees in SSD claims.

Hiring a lawyer triples your chances of winning your claim. It also reduces the stress of the disability process. If you are living with Alstrom syndrome and cannot work, then you deserve support. We can help you pursue the benefits you need and deserve. Contact us today.