doctor and patient | afib disability

Your heart races, pounds, and flutters. Dizziness and fatigue make everyday activities a struggle. If atrial fibrillation (AFib) has kept you from working, you may wonder if you’ll qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The answer depends on the severity of your condition and how it impacts your ability to work. 

At the law office of Phillip M. Hendry, we understand the profound impact AFib can have on your ability to work and provide for yourself and your family. Experienced Social Security disability attorney Phillip M. Hendry can guide you through the SSDI application process, help you understand your eligibility, and fight for the benefits you deserve.

What Is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation, also known as Afib or AF, is a type of irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the heart's upper chambers (the atria) beat out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This abnormal rhythm can cause palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, and weakness. Over time, untreated Afib can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure.

While some people with Afib can manage their condition with medication and lifestyle changes, others experience debilitating symptoms that make it impossible to maintain steady employment. 

How the Social Security Administration Evaluates AFib

The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a medical guide called the Blue Book to determine whether an applicant's condition qualifies for disability benefits. AFib is assessed under Section 4.05, Recurrent arrhythmias. To meet this listing, you must show all of the following:

  • Uncontrolled recurrent episodes of cardiac syncope (fainting) or near syncope
  • These episodes occur despite following your prescribed treatment plan
  • Your AFib symptoms significantly limit your ability to perform daily living activities independently

Comprehensive medical records are essential to demonstrate your eligibility under the Blue Book criteria. This includes documentation of your AFib diagnosis, treatment history, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations related to your condition. Statements from your treating cardiologist detailing the frequency and severity of your AFib episodes can bolster your claim.

Qualifying Through a Medical-Vocational Allowance

Meeting the Blue Book criteria isn't the only path to disability benefits. If your AFib symptoms are severe enough to prevent you from working, you may still qualify under a medical-vocational allowance. The SSA will assess your residual functional capacity (RFC)—the most you can do despite your limitations—to determine if you can perform your past job duties or transition to other suitable work.

For instance, if your AFib causes persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty maintaining focus, your RFC may demonstrate that you cannot handle strenuous tasks, remain on your feet for extended periods, or sustain the concentration required for skilled work. If the SSA finds that your limitations preclude you from performing any jobs you're qualified for based on your age, education, and work experience, you may be approved for benefits.

The Importance of Consistent Medical Treatment for Your AFib Claim

When evaluating your disability application, the SSA will look for evidence that you consistently seek treatment to manage your AFib. This means regularly visiting your cardiologist, taking prescribed medications, and following your doctor's recommendations for lifestyle changes and monitoring.

Failing to adhere to your treatment plan can jeopardize your disability claim. The SSA may interpret gaps in treatment as a sign that your condition is not as severe as alleged or that you're not making a genuine effort to improve your health. If you've had difficulty maintaining consistent treatment due to financial or logistical barriers, discuss these challenges with your disability attorney. They can help you gather evidence to explain your situation and avoid unfair denials.

Appealing a Denied AFib Disability Claim

It's a harsh reality that most initial Social Security disability applications are denied. Receiving a denial letter can be disheartening, but it's not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal the decision and present a stronger case for approval.

The disability appeals process involves four potential stages:

  1. Request for reconsideration. You can ask for a fresh review of your claim by a new disability examiner.
  2. ALJ Hearing. If your application is denied again, you may present your case in person before an administrative law judge.
  3. Appeals council review. If the hearing doesn’t go in your favor, you can request an evaluation of the ALJ's decision to look for errors or overlooked evidence.
  4. Federal court review. This is a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court challenging the SSA's final decision.

Having a knowledgeable disability attorney by your side is crucial during the appeals process. Your lawyer can help you identify and rectify any weaknesses in your initial application, gather persuasive new evidence, prepare you for questioning at your ALJ hearing, and craft a compelling argument for approval.

Maximizing Your Chances of a Successful Disability Claim for AFib

Living with AFib is challenging enough without the added stress of a Social Security disability application. Working with an experienced attorney can significantly improve your odds of success and provide invaluable peace of mind throughout the process.

At the law office of Phillip M. Hendry, we understand the profound impact AFib can have on your ability to work and provide for yourself and your loved ones. With extensive experience handling Social Security disability claims, we have the knowledge, skills, and dedication to guide you through every step and fight tirelessly for the benefits you need and deserve.