ANEURYSM & DISABILITY BENEFITS
DOES AN ANEURYSM QUALIFY FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS?
An aneurysm is not just a medical term. It can be a life changing event that alters your ability to work and take care of your family. It can even keep you from doing simple daily tasks. An aneurysm happens when part of an artery wall weakens and begins to bulge outward. Over time, this bulge can grow, increasing the risk of a rupture or dissection. If that happens, it can cause severe internal bleeding, stroke symptoms, or even death. Understanding aneurysms is crucial to knowing the signs and seeking timely medical intervention.
For many people, surviving an aneurysm is only the beginning. The aftermath often involves long hospital stays, ongoing medical care, and lifestyle changes. Physical restrictions, chronic pain, fatigue, and cognitive problems can make holding a job impossible. That is where Social Security Disability benefits can make a difference.
However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not approve benefits simply because you have an aneurysm. They will require medical proof and a clear connection between your condition and being unable to work. They will also require you to apply for benefits. You can do so on the Social Security website.
At our SSD law firm, we understand that the process of filing for SSD benefits while dealing with a serious medical condition can feel overwhelming. This article explains how the SSA evaluates aneurysm cases, the evidence they require, and what you can do to improve your chances of winning your claim.
WHAT IS AN ANEURYSM?
An aneurysm is essentially a weak spot in the wall of an artery, the blood vessels that carry oxygen rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When that wall becomes thin or damaged, blood pressure can push against it, causing the artery to bulge like a balloon. That bulge is the aneurysm. The danger lies in what can happen next. If the aneurysm grows too large or the arterial wall becomes too thin, it can rupture. In some cases, a tear inside the wall—known as a dissection—can end your life.
Aneurysms can occur anywhere in the body, but the most serious types are found in the aorta—the body’s largest artery. They can also occur in the arteries of the brain. Aortic aneurysms can interfere with blood flow to vital organs. If they rupture, then it causes internal bleeding. Brain aneurysms can cause a type of stroke. This can lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Some people live with small, stable aneurysms for years without symptoms. Others discover they have an aneurysm only after a rupture. For those who experience one, the impact on health and cognitive function can be severe.
SYMPTOMS AND IMPACT ON DAILY LIFE
The symptoms of an aneurysm depend on its location and size. Some people live for years without knowing they have one. In other cases, symptoms appear as the aneurysm presses against surrounding nerves, tissues, or organs.
An aortic aneurysm in the chest can cause difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a cough that does not go away. One in the abdomen may cause back or pain in the stomach area. A brain aneurysm may create headaches, blurred vision, or weakness on one side of the body.
The most severe symptoms occur when an aneurysm ruptures. A brain aneurysm often causes a sudden, extremely painful headache, nausea, loss of consciousness, or seizure. An aortic aneurysm can lead to shock, rapid heart rate, and severe pain.
Even if an aneurysm does not rupture, it can limit daily life. Doctors may forbid heavy lifting, bending, or exercise to reduce the risk of rupture. These restrictions can make certain jobs impossible, especially if they involve physical labor. Fatigue and pain can also interfere with seated work. Many patients also face emotional challenges, such as anxiety and depression.
HOW AN ANEURYSM CAN CAUSE DISABILITY
When you hear the word “aneurysm,” you might think only of the initial medical crisis, but the long term effects can be severe. A rupture often requires emergency surgery, and recovery may be slow. For example, a person who survives a brain aneurysm may face lasting weakness on one side of the body. They may also experience trouble with speech or problems with memory and concentration. These symptoms can make returning to work extremely difficult.
Even without rupture, the presence of a large aneurysm can change how you live your life. Doctors often place strict limits on physical activity to prevent the risk of rupture. You may be told to avoid lifting, bending, or other forms of activity. If your job involves physical labor—such as construction, warehouse work, or nursing—those restrictions could make it impossible to continue working.
Pain is another factor that the SSA will consider. Some aneurysms press on surrounding nerves or tissues, causing chronic pain. Others aneurysms lead to fatigue or difficulty breathing. These symptoms may not be visible to others. However, they can have a profound effect on your ability to maintain steady employment.
ANEURYSM CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
Aneurysms can develop for different reasons. High blood pressure is one of the most common causes because it puts constant strain on artery walls. Atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque inside your artery, can also weaken vessel walls.
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, can increase your risk. So can age. Men over the age of 60 are at greater risk for aortic aneurysms. While women are likely to develop brain aneurysms. Trauma, certain infections, and prior vascular surgery can also lead to aneurysm formation.
Understanding the cause of your aneurysm is important for your medical care. But it also matters in your disability claim. The SSA will look for medical records that explain how your aneurysm developed, what treatments you have received, and whether your condition is likely to improve.
LISTING 4.10 – ANEURYSM OF THE AORTA OR MAJOR BRANCHES
When the SSA reviews aneurysm cases, one of the first things they consider is whether your condition meets a specific medical listing in their “Blue Book.” For aneurysms in the aorta or its major branches, that listing is 4.10. The SSA will consider you disabled if your medical records prove you meet the exact criteria of the listing.
Listing 4.10 – Aneurysm of aorta or major branches, due to any cause (e.g., atherosclerosis, Marfan syndrome, trauma), demonstrated by acceptable medical imaging, with dissection not controlled by treatment.
Listing 4.10 focuses on aneurysms that are shown through reliable imaging, such as CT scans or MRIs. The SSA does not accept a diagnosis based on symptoms alone. Instead, they require objective medical evidence. The aneurysm must also be uncontrolled despite treatment. This means that even if you are taking medications and following your treatment plan, the aneurysm remains unstable enough to pose a significant risk.
IS THE ANEURYSM RESPONDING TO TREATMENT?
The language of Listing 4.10 refers to aneurysms that are “at risk of rupture” or “dissecting.” In plain terms, this means your medical records must show that the aneurysm is not stable and could tear or burst at any time. Or, the records must show that it has already begun to separate the layers of the artery wall. These conditions are considered so dangerous that the SSA does not require additional proof that you are unable to work. The existence of the aneurysm itself, in this state, is enough to meet their definition of disability.
However, meeting the listing is not as simple as handing over a test result. The SSA will expect to see detailed records from your doctors. Those records should describe the history of your aneurysm. Also, they should discuss your treatment plan and your symptoms. Finally, make sure your doctor talks about whether your condition limits your ability to perform work tasks.
If the SSA determines that your aneurysm is small, stable, or responding to treatment, then they may decide you do not meet Listing 4.10. This may be true even if your doctor told you not to work. In that case, you would need to show that the aneurysm and its symptoms prevent you from working under what is known as your RFC.
RESIDUAL FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY AND ANEURYSM CLAIMS
If you do not meet the strict requirements of Listing 4.10, you can still qualify for disability benefits based on your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). The RFC is an assessment the Social Security Administration uses to determine what work activities you can still do despite your medical condition.
For someone with an aneurysm, an RFC review may consider many factors. The SSA will look at your ability to stand, walk, and sit for long periods. They will examine whether you can lift, carry, bend, or climb. If your aneurysm affects your brain, they will also assess your ability to remember information, follow instructions, and concentrate on tasks.
The RFC process is especially important for people with aneurysms that are stable but still cause significant limitations. For example, your doctor may state you should not lift more than ten pounds, bend forward, or stand for long periods of time. If your job involved construction or warehouse work, then these restrictions would make your past work impossible. Even in seated jobs, fatigue, pain, or cognitive problems can interfere with performance.
In RFC cases, the SSA considers your age, education, and work history. For younger workers, the SSA may expect you to adjust to a less physical job. For older workers, especially those over 50, the rules recognize that learning a completely new career is not usually possible.
The key to winning benefits through RFC is detailed medical evidence. Your doctor should explain why restrictions are necessary. Also, your doctor should state how long they have been in place and why they are unlikely to change. Without this, the SSA may assume you can still work in some capacity.
WHY THE SSA DENIES MANY ANEURYSM CLAIMS
The SSA denies many initial aneurysm claims. This often happens because the medical evidence does not meet SSA’s exact standards. In some cases, test results are missing from the file, or the imaging reports do not describe the size of the aneurysm. In other cases, the medical records do not clearly show whether the aneurysm is stable or not.
Another reason for denial is that the SSA may believe you can still work despite your aneurysm. For example, if your aneurysm is small and your doctor has not placed restrictions on your activities, then the SSA may conclude you can perform seated work.
Some denials occur because forms are not filled out correctly. The SSA process is technical. Therefore, even small mistakes can delay your claim. That is why it is critical to submit a complete, organized application. Then, you need to submit medical evidence that supports your claim.
STRENGTHENING YOUR SSD CLAIM
There are several steps you can take to improve your chances of winning benefits. First, follow all medical advice and attend all scheduled appointments. Gaps in treatment can make it seem like your condition is not serious.
Second, keep a personal record of your symptoms. Write down when you experience pain, fatigue, or vision problems. Include how these symptoms affect your daily activities.
Third, communicate with your doctors about your work limitations. Make sure they understand not just your diagnosis but how it affects your ability to do your job. Detailed medical notes can be critical evidence in your claim.
Finally, consider getting legal help early in the process. A lawyer can make sure your initial application is as strong as possible. Hiring a lawyer will reduce the risk of a denial and the delay of an appeal.
HIRE THE BEST SSD LAW FIRM TO WIN YOUR BENEFITS
An aneurysm, no matter the cause, is a serious medical condition that can make it impossible to work. It isn’t easy to get disability benefits. The application process can be frustrating for most people. But, having an attorney throughout the appeal process can make it easier. When you have a law firm with experience helping you, the SSA makes sure to follow their own procedures.
Additionally, when you have an attorney, they will have access to Social Security’s decisions. They can also submit medical evidence that may be missing from your case. Your attorney can also give you advice about what you need to do to win your benefits.
If your case goes to a hearing, then hire an attorney with experience to prepare you to testify. Your attorney can also question the SSA’s job expert and the medical expert at the hearing. They will argue your aneurysm meets or equals Listing 4.10. Additionally, they will prove your RFC prevents you from working.
The most important factors in winning are strong medical evidence and a clear argument as to how an aneurysm affects your daily life. With the right preparation—and the help of an experienced attorney—you can give yourself the best possible chance of winning benefits. Hire us. Contact our SSD law firm today.
