CUSHING’S SYNDROME: IS IT DISABLING?
CUSHING’S SYNDROME AND SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS
Cushing’s Syndrome is a rare endocrine disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Cortisol regulates metabolism, blood sugar, and the immune system. Excess cortisol can damage multiple organs and affects your overall health.
People with Cushing’s often experience weight gain, muscle weakness, fatigue, and cognitive changes. These symptoms can prevent consistent employment. You can apply for SSDI and SSI benefits if you cannot work for one year due your Cushing’s Syndrome.
Even though Cushing’s Syndrome is not part of the listing in the SSA’s Blue Book, you can still qualify for SSD benefits if you have severe symptoms that prevent you from working.
WHAT IS CUSHING’S SYNDROME?
Cushing’s Syndrome occurs when the body produces excessive cortisol over an extended period of time. Cortisol helps regulate stress, inflammation, and your metabolism. Prolonged exposure can disrupt nearly every system in your body.
However, the most common cause of Cushing’s Syndrome is a pituitary tumor producing excess adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH overstimulates the adrenal glands and causes high cortisol levels. Less frequently, tumors in the adrenal glands can also produce excess cortisol.
Certain cancers can also produce ACTH outside the pituitary gland. This can also lead to too much cortisol. Chronic steroid use can also mimic high cortisol levels. Regardless of the cause, the symptoms of Cushing’s disease can be severe and cause disability.
SYMPTOMS AND THE DAILY IMPACT OF CUSHING’S SYNDROME
The symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome often develop slowly, which makes the condition difficult to detect. Rapid weight gain usually occurs in the face, neck, upper back, and abdomen. A rounded “moon face” is characteristic of the disease.
Additionally, fat can accumulate around the upper back can form a “buffalo hump.” The skin becomes fragile and bruises easily. Purple or pink stretch marks often appear on the abdomen, thighs, and arms.
Muscle weakness can reduce your mobility and make daily tasks challenging. Fatigue can also impact your concentration and energy levels. High blood pressure and bone loss can increase the risk of fractures and heart problems. Mood changes, depression, and cognitive difficulties are common. Combined, these effects can make it impossible to maintain a job.
THE DIAGNOSIS OF CUSHING’S SYNDROME
Diagnosing Cushing’s Syndrome involves multiple tests to confirm elevated cortisol and identify the underlying cause of the cortisol issue. The 24 hour urinary free cortisol test measures cortisol excretion over a full day. Additionally, salivary tests are often done at night, when levels should be lowest.
Blood tests also measure ACTH and other hormones to determine the source of excess cortisol. Imaging studies, such as CT scans and MRIs, can detect tumors in the pituitary or adrenal glands. Proper diagnosis is crucial for treatment and proving disability. Early diagnosis improves management and can prevent further organ damage. It also strengthens a Social Security Disability claim.
FILE FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS
If you have Cushing’s Syndrome, then there are two forms of benefits for which you can file an application: Social Security Disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits. You can file an application on Social Security’s website. Below is an explanation about each type of benefit:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):
SSDI benefits are for those who can no longer work at any job due to a medical condition, like Cushing’s disease. The amount of money you will receive from SSDI benefits is based on how much Social Security tax you paid during your work history. To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have enough “work credits.”
A work credit is an amount of taxable income. You can earn up to 4 work credits per year. The amount of work credits you need will depend on how old you are when you apply. If you haven’t earned enough work credits for your age at the time you apply, then you can only apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
SSI is a needs based benefit and it is for those people with little to no income, such as children and the elderly. Anyone who makes more than a certain amount of money per month cannot receive SSI benefits. The SSA counts the income of those in your home with whom you share expenses, not just your income and assets.
If you have a spouse who earns more than $5000 a month, for example, then that income prevents you from getting SSI benefits. You cannot qualify for SSI benefits, no matter how severe your medical condition, if you do not meet the income and asset rules for SSI.
TREATMENT FOR CUSHING’S SYNDROME
The treatment you need depends on the underlying cause of your Cushing’s Syndrome. However, surgical removal of the pituitary gland or adrenal tumor is usually the first approach. Radiation therapy may follow surgery if tumor cells remain. Additionally, medications can reduce cortisol production or block its effects.
Patients with steroid induced Cushing’s may need gradual tapering of steroid medications. Even after treatment, you may experience ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and mental issues. Long term care includes regular doctor visits and physical therapy. Getting mental health support can help with symptoms of depression and anxiety. Make sure you get proper medical treatment for your disease.
THE EMPLOYMENT IMPACT OF CUSHING’S DISEASE
Cushing’s Syndrome often causes severe functional limitations. Muscle weakness and fatigue can prevent your ability to walk, lift, or stand for long periods. Cognitive difficulties can affect your memory and concentration. It can also impact your ability to make decisions. These problems can prevent you from working.
Additionally, the disease can cause mood changes which may make social interactions and working with others difficult. Therefore, the combination of the physical and mental symptoms from Cushing’s Syndrome can make even seated work impossible to do. When you apply for benefits, remember to tell the SSA all of your symptoms and how they prevent you from working.
Making sure you document your symptoms is critical when filing for Social Security Disability benefits. You must be able to prove that you cannot engage in substantial gainful activity for at least twelve months.
SOCIAL SECURITY RULING 14-3P AND ENDOCRINE DISORDERS
Social Security Ruling 14-3p provides guidance on how to evaluate Cushing’s Syndrome in disability claims. This ruling is relevant because Cushing’s Syndomre is not listed in the Blue Book.
SSR 14-3p clarifies how to prove disability for Cushing’s Syndrome. Under SSR 14-3p, SSA evaluates the functional limitations caused by Cushing’s Syndrome in multiple domains. Muscle weakness and fatigue are usually part of the picture. The SSA considers high blood pressure or heart failure under the heart listing. They evaluate cognitive difficulties and mood changes under the mental listing in the SSA’s Blue Book.
The ruling allows for medical equivalence determinations if your symptoms match or equal a listing. SSR 14-3p provides a framework to show that Cushing’s Syndrome significantly limits your work ability.
SSA LISTINGS AND CUSHING’S SYNDROME
Even though Cushing’s Syndrome is not explicitly listed, it can qualify for benefits under other another SSA listing. SSR 14-3p ensures that the SSA considers all of the functional effects of the disease.
A strong Cushing’s Syndrome disability claim requires you to submit all of your medical records. Your medical records should include lab results, imaging studies, and progress notes from your doctor.
Your doctor should describe how your symptoms prevent your ability to work. Treatment records, medications, and side effects help prove the claim. A personal statement that describes your daily struggles can also help. A spotty work history can also show the inability to maintain employment. SSR 14-3p reinforces the importance of including all functional effects of Cushing’s Syndrome.
APPLICATION PROCESS FOR SSD BENEFITS
Applying for benefits involves careful preparation. Gather all medical records and treatment histories. Complete the SSA application online or at a local office. Clearly explain functional limitations and daily challenges. Include physician statements and specialist evaluations.
If your claim is denied, then appeal until you can request a hearing. Experienced SSD attorneys can significantly improve success rates. They ensure the application aligns with SSA criteria, including SSR 14-3p. Legal support helps show how Cushing’s Syndrome can equal or meet another listing.
APPEALS AND DENIALS IN YOUR SSD CLAIM
Almost 90% of initial disability claims are denied by the SSA. So, don’t let it discourage you. They hope you will give up. Don’t do it. Simply appeal. You have 60 days to file an appeal and it can be done online.
Appeals can take months. Dealing with the SSA requires patience and the ability to never give up. Hiring an attorney with decades of experience can improve your chances of approval. Submit your medical records to the SSA. Those will discuss your symptoms and limitations.
An experienced SSD lawyer knows how to link your medical records with the legal rules that govern Social Security cases. This includes citing the correct regulations. An attorney will argue your condition meets the SSA’s listing under step three. They will also explain how your symptoms prevent you from working at all jobs. Our law firm knows how to present your medical evidence in a way that clearly supports the SSA’s requirements.
REAL LIFE IMPACT OF CUSHING’S SYNDROME
Cushing’s Syndrome affects all aspects of life. Fatigue and muscle weakness make household chores and personal care difficult. Additionally, mood changes can impact your relationships and social life.
Frequent medical appointments and hospital visits also disrupt your ability to keep a job. When you combine the physical, cognitive, and emotional limitations, you can see why Cushing’s Syndrome can meet the SSA rules under SSR 14-3p. Proper records are essential to convey these impacts to the SSA.
The long term outlook depends on treatment success. Surgery, radiation, or medications can improve symptoms. However, your symptoms may persist. Visit your doctor on a regular basis, not just once or twice a year, so you can receive treatment.
SSD benefits may be necessary to maintain your financial stability. Even with treatment, functional limitations can continue. SSR 14-3p ensures that all effects of the disorder are considered in your claim for benefits.
HIRING AN SSD ATTORNEY FOR YOUR HEARING
If your case goes to a hearing before an SSA Judge, then you should hire a disability attorney. It is important to do so because this is your best chance to win. An SSD lawyer can explain your situation and prove why you cannot work. Additionally, hearings are formal legal proceedings. You should hire a lawyer who has done thousands of hearings.
An SSD attorney will prepare you for questions the judge is likely to ask. They will also know how to present evidence in a way that strengthens your case. For example, a lawyer may need to question a medical expert or job expert at the hearing. They can also highlight parts of your medical records that directly support your claim.
Sometimes, a single piece of evidence or one argument can make the difference between winning and losing. That is why you hire an attorney, for their ability to present the best evidence in your case.
LEARN ABOUT YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS
To learn about your legal options, contact
Our attorneys practice in Utah, California, and Nevada. We also represent clients in Idaho, Arizona, Washington, and other states. Find out information about Utah SSD benefits. Review information about Nevada SSDI benefits. We have helped many clients win benefits.
Our main office is in Salt Lake City, Utah. However, there are also hearing offices in Las Vegas, San Francisco, Oakland. Learn information about California SSD benefits. Idaho SSD benefit information is also available. In order to become our client all you need to do is give us a call.
We are also familiar with the Social Security laws where you live. Additionally, we understand the medical evidence the judge needs that will help you win your case. We can also present the best arguments in court because of our experience. We can help you no matter where you live. If you need to apply for SSD benefits, then contact us.
HIRE US. THE BEST SSD LAW FIRM
Cushing’s Syndrome is a complex disorder with serious physical, cognitive, and emotional effects. If you can’t work due to the disease, then file for benefits. As the SSA to use SSR 14-3p to assess your Cushing’s Syndrome.
Although Cushing’s syndrome is not part of the listing, you may still qualify for benefits if your symptoms meet or equal another listing. Medical records, clear descriptions of your symptoms, and the help of a lawyer with years of experience will help you win benefits.
Individuals with Cushing’s Syndrome should document symptoms carefully, understand SSR 14-3p guidance, and pursue SSD benefits. Our law firm has helped over 20,000 clients win their SSD benefits. We will help you get the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free case review. Put our legal experience to work for you.
