Posts

Applying for disability with Epilepsy

Epilepsy can affect people of all ages. It is characterized by unpredictable seizures and can cause other health problems. Epilepsy is a spectrum condition with symptoms and seizure types that vary widely from person-to-person. The Social Security Administration evaluates epilepsy according to the type, frequency, duration, and nature of the seizures. Because epileptic seizures can often be controlled with anticonvulsant medications, you will need to prove that despite taking your medication as prescribed for at least three months, you are still unable to work due to your disease. If you are applying for benefits due to epilepsy the SSA will want to see: -a diagnosis of epilepsy -a treatment history, including medications and other treatments and how they have affected your seizures -a statement from your doctor backing up your descriptions of the nature and frequency of your seizures -EEG results -a record detailing the frequency of your past seizures -a comprehensive description of y...

Social Security Cola for 2026 may be low

  Social Security COLA projected to be lower in 2026. Tariffs may change that

Applying for disability with Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by severe drowsiness and fatigue. Some people with narcolepsy also experience the sudden loss of muscle strength, known as cataplexy. There is no cure for narcolepsy, but treatment – such as stimulant medications, frequents naps, and other forms of behavioral therapy – can help. Narcolepsy type 1  is a rarer, more severe form of narcolepsy that includes cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness) and is linked to low levels of a brain hormone called hypocretin. People with  narcolepsy type 2  don't experience cataplexy and usually exhibit normal levels of hypocretin. Prevailing on your narcolepsy disability claim requires medical evidence to support the diagnosis. Medical evidence may include one or more of the following:      -Sleep study results      -Genetic testing      -EEGs      -MRIs or other brain imaging      -Results of muscle testing (if your narcoleps...
Chiari Malformation is a condition where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. There are three types of Chiari malformation, depending on the amount and location of the brain tissue that is present in the spinal canal and whether there are other abnormalities of the brain or spinal cord. Chiari Malformation symptoms in adults are usually not present until sudden coughing, sneezing or straining occurs. Neck pain, unsteady walking, poor fine motor skills in the hands, numbness in the hands or feet, numbness, dizziness, difficulty swallowing, vision or speech problems are among some of the more common symptoms. There are four types of Chiari Malformation. Type 1, also known as the adult form, is the most common. It is developed as the brain and skull are growing and may not be diagnosed until the patient is an older child or even into adulthood. Type 2, also known as the pediatric form, is present at birth.  Types III and IV are not as common and are very severe. Type III is whe...

Keys to a Successful SSDI or SSI Claim

At Allan W. Ben P.C. we know that successful SSDI or SSI claims are won or lost in the details. It is not the job of the claims handler to guess at your qualifications for any particular benefit. In order to ensure your claim is successful, you must provide evidence that compels the claims handler to approve you for receiving SSDI or SSI. As your lawyer I will make sure that your evidence is gathered and documented. Gather Medical Support For Your Social Security Disability Claim There are two main elements to medical support, which involves securing all the necessary documentation you will need and having the support of your physicians and therapists. It is important to keep accurate and dated records of all treatments, scans, doctor and hospital visits, and receipts for any over-the-counter treatments you purchase. You will also need medical or therapeutic practitioners on whom you can rely to supply supporting letters for your disability benefits claim. This is another area where ha...

interesting article on Administrative Law Judges

  Trump Administration Action Against Social Security Judges Threatens Fair Access to Benefits | Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

Hereditary spastic paraplegias

Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders with spastic paraparesis as the main clinical feature. Complex forms may co-occur with other motor, sensory, and cognitive impairment.  Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), also called familial spastic paraparesis (FSP), refers to a group of inherited disorders that are characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity (stiffness) of the legs. Early in the disease course, there may be mild gait difficulties and stiffness. These symptoms typically slowly progress so that eventually individuals with HSP may require the assistance of a cane, walker, or wheelchair. Though the primary features of "pure" HSP are progressive lower limb spasticity and weakness, complicated forms may be accompanied by other symptoms. These additional symptoms include impaired vision due to cataracts and problems with the optic nerve and retina of the eye, ataxia (lack of muscle coordination), epilepsy, cognitive im...