Everyday People Matter

Thyroid Gland Disorders – Do They Qualify One for Social Security Disability Benefits?

| Jan 21, 2020 | Thyroid Disease

Thyroid-gland-stethoscope-blood-tube-and-hematology-test-result

If you suffer from a thyroid gland disorder, you may qualify for disability benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance program.

The thyroid gland is responsible for secreting hormones that are responsible for various functions. When there is any kind of imbalance in the functioning of the thyroid gland, it can lead to physiological disturbances that impact the body in several ways.

There can be several types of thyroid gland disorders, and these can impact an individual’s life in various ways. Not all disorders will qualify for benefits, however.

It’s important to understand how these medical conditions can impact your life, and what steps you can take when you find that these conditions limit your functioning.

Hyperthyroidism, for instance, is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces an excess amount of the hormone, thyroxine. This can lead to a number of effects, including irregular or accelerated heartbeat.  Hyperthyroidism can be caused by a number of conditions, including Graves’ disease, and thyroiditis. Symptoms can include sudden, unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and fatigue.

At the other end of the spectrum is hypothyroidism in which your glands do not produce enough hormones. As a result, several body processes, including those that are related to digestion and respiration, slow down. You might feel fatigued or sluggish.  Metabolism slows down and, there may be stomach disorders.  Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is a common cause of hypothyroidism.

A number of thyroid gland disorders may qualify a person for Social Security disability benefits.  Graves’ disease, for instance, may result in impairments that qualify a person for benefits. Even if your thyroid disorder is not mentioned as a listing eligible for Social Security disability benefits, you can still recover benefits based on the extent to which the disorder interferes with your ability to earn a sustainable income.