Patients with congenital heart disease may be unable to work because of their disease and its related complications. Patients who find themselves unable to work because of their congenital heart disease may qualify for long term disability (LTD) benefits. The insurance company will review their claim to see if they qualify under the conditions of that plan.
What is Congenital Heart Disease?
Congenital heart disease, or congenital heart defect, is a general term used to describe defects and problems with the heart and great vessels that are present from birth. It is the most common type of birth defect, affecting 9 out of every 1000 newborns, and causing the most birth defect-related deaths. In many cases, nothing or very little occurs as a result of having the disorder, but some instances require immediate surgery or long term medication and treatment.
Even though the defect is present at birth, symptoms in a child with congenital heart disease may not appear for a lengthy period. These symptoms often include shortness of breath, under-developed limbs and muscles, poor growth, and respiratory infections. Some cases result in cyanosis, in which the skin turns a shade of blue or purple due to a lack of oxygen in skin tissues. “Heart murmurs,” or odd sounds made by turbulent blood flow in or near the heart, may also be experienced.
Since the signs of congenital heart disease are usually apparent during an ultrasound, pediatric heart specialists are made available for the birth to provide immediate medical care, which allows even extreme cases of heart-related birth defects to very rarely have fatal repercussions. However, since the disease is considered genetic, it can theoretically be avoided entirely by refraining from smoking, drinking, or using illegal substances during pregnancy. Women with diabetes and other blood-related illnesses are also at risk.
Work With an Experienced Long Term Disability Attorney
All heart defects cause either a disruption of blood flow in the heart or nearby vessels or an abnormal pattern of blood flow through the heart. This is what can cause either mild symptoms that create no great inconvenience or severe situations of heart failure that can even be life-threatening.
Working with an experienced disability attorney will give you the best chance of getting the benefits you deserve for your congenital heart disease. Even if you have been denied benefits, that does not mean your fight is over. Many people are denied benefits the first time they apply. You have the right to file an appeal and try to get more information that may help your case. Getting expert help is often the difference between being denied and being approved for benefits.
While the process can be daunting, your experienced disability attorney will be able to guide you through the process. They do not get paid until you win your case. You can seek help without worrying about upfront costs or unexpected bills.
The Ortiz Law Firm has successfully represented people in disability cases across the United States. If you would like to talk to an experienced disability lawyer about your congenital heart disease and its impact on your ability to work, call us at (866) 853-7703. We would be happy to evaluate your case and to discuss how to help you through the appeal process.