If you have been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, you may be able to obtain disability benefits as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Because navigating the claims process is challenging, it is essential to consult an experienced disability attorney.

At the Law Office of Carey Thompson, PC, we provide compassionate representation to disabled individuals and their families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and throughout Texas. Lead attorney Carey Thompson and his legal team have a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of the disabled who work in the best interests of their clients.

We are well-versed in the eligibility requirements for diabetes found in the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book. Once you become our client, we will guide you through all aspects of filing a disability claim and help you get the benefits you need and deserve. Contact our El Paso office today for a consultation. 

Understanding Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic medical condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, resulting in an inability to process glucose and high blood sugar levels. There are two types of diabetes:

  • Type 1 diabetes – This form of diabetes typically presents in childhood or adolescence. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes don’t produce enough insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. They must monitor blood sugar levels daily and have insulin injections. 
  • Type 2 diabetes – This condition is also known as adult-onset diabetes, which develops when the body’s cells become insulin resistant and fail to process enough glucose. Type 2 diabetes is most common in individuals 45 and older and is associated with obesity, high blood pressure, and genetic factors.

Both types of diabetes can lead to complications such as:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Kidney problems
  • Skin infections
  • Vision loss

Controlling diabetes requires vigilant blood sugar monitoring, medication, diet, and lifestyle changes. However, persistently high blood sugar levels may result in nerve damage (neuropathy), causing pain, numbness, burning, and tingling in the extremities. If you or a family member are struggling with diabetes, our skilled Texas disability attorney is here to protect your right to disability benefits.

How Do I Qualify for Disability Benefits for Diabetes?

The SSA’s listing of qualifying endocrine disorders includes diabetes, but obtaining benefits is challenging. You may not be eligible if your diabetes is under control with medicine. If your diabetes is uncontrolled and you have related symptoms, such as peripheral neuropathy or poor vision, you may qualify for benefits. 

You may also be able to obtain disability benefits if you have a diabetes-related condition that is medically equivalent to a listed impairment, such as kidney failure, cardiovascular issues, or amputation of a limb. Children with diabetes also qualify if (1) they are hospitalized frequently and (2) medical records show that their blood sugar levels fluctuate severely even with treatment. 

In any event, you must also (1) be unable to perform the duties of your prior occupation and (2) have a diagnosed medical condition that prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA). Finally, you must have been diagnosed with diabetes for at least one year.

If you are seeking disability benefits for diabetes, it is crucial to list all your symptoms, related conditions, and diagnoses. This way, your application will be fairly evaluated by disability examiners.

How We Can Help with Your Claim

When you meet with us, we will explain the technical and medical eligibility requirements for obtaining benefits and determine whether you have a valid claim. To receive benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, you must have paid into the Social Security system and earned sufficient work credits. While there is no work requirement to be eligible for SSI, you must be able to demonstrate financial need. 

You can depend on our legal team to make sure you meet these requirements before we submit your claim. Ultimately, obtaining disability benefits for this condition depends on providing the SSA with sufficient medical evidence, such as

  • Doctor’s notes
  • Lab tests (blood tests, nerve damage assessments, ECGs)
  • A medical opinion confirming that your diabetes is severe enough to prevent you from working 

Our disability attorneys will work closely with your doctor to build a medical record that supports your claim. Although your initial claim may get denied, you have a right to an appeal. You may also need to participate in an informal disability hearing. 

We will be there every step of the way and make sure your interests are protected. We have in-depth knowledge of the disability claims process, longstanding professional relationships with disability examiners and Administrative Law Judges (ALJs), and an impressive track record of success. 

Contact Our Experienced Texas Disability Attorneys

If you or a loved one has diabetes that prevents you from working, the Law Office of Carey Thompson can help. Because we understand your physical, emotional, and financial challenges, we will charge no attorneys’ fees until we obtain the benefits you deserve. Contact our office today to get started with an experienced disability attorney.