Hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex, also known as Cushing's Syndrome, is a condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Many of the individuals who suffer from this disorder are unable to maintain full-time employment due to the symptoms that the disease can cause. In many cases, Social Security Disability benefits can offset some of the financial stress caused by a hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex. If you or someone you know is suffering from this condition, the following information will help you understand how the SSA reviews disability claims based on this diagnosis and how you can increase your chances of obtaining the Social Security Disability benefits you may be entitled to.
Hyperfunction of the Adrenal Cortex Condition and Symptoms
The body's adrenal cortex is responsible for the secretion of a variety of hormones including the cortisol hormone and other corticosteroids. When this cortex creates too many of the hormones it is responsible for secreting, the disorder is known as Cushing's Syndrome, or a hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex.
In some cases, a hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex can be traced back to the body's pituitary gland. If this gland is secreting too much ACTH, it will cause the adrenal cortex to create more hormones than normal. When this is the case, the condition is referred to as ACTH-dependent hyperfunction. If the malfunctioning of the adrenal cortex has no relation to the pituitary gland, then the condition is referred to as ACTH-independent hyperfunction. Usually, these cases are due to tumors directly on the adrenal glands.
Hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex can result in a variety of symptoms. The specific symptoms an individual experiences will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the hormones being produced. Common symptoms of a hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex include increased fat at the top of the back, increased libido, loss of scalp hair, increased body hair, increased facial hair, excessive body fat located in the torso, muscle weakness, thin skin, easy bruising, slow healing of wounds, increased blood pressure, depression, nervous system dysfunction, excessive thirst, frequent urination, muscle spasms, headaches, menstrual irregularities, increased adrenaline, infertility, irregular heart rate, rapid breathing and; in severe cases; hallucinations and paralysis.
Filing for Social Security Disability with Hyperfunction of the Adrenal Cortex
When one considers the symptoms of hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex, it is easy to see why individuals who suffer from this condition may be unable to maintain the responsibilities of full-time employment. Fortunately, hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex is addressed by the Social Security Administration under Section 9.06 of its Blue Book of Medical Listings.
While the SSA does recognize hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex as a disabling condition, it does not provide specific qualifying criteria due to the fact that the symptoms of the disorder can vary dramatically from one individual to the next. Because of this, you will need to prove the severity of your condition to the Social Security Administration and will need to demonstrate how your illness prevents you from performing any gainful work activity.
When filling out your disability claim forms, make sure that you are thorough and accurate in the answers you provide. Try not to answer any of the questions with one-word answers or short responses. Be as detailed as possible so that the adjudicator reviewing your file understands just how much of an impact this illness has on your life. Also make sure you provide a complete copy of your medical records along with lab results and treatment histories when submitting your Social Security Disability application. The SSA will need to see this information before making a determination regarding your disability benefits.
Hyperfunction of the Adrenal Cortex and Your Social Security Disability Case
Because the Social Security Administration does not provide specific guidelines regarding how an individual with a hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, qualifying for benefits during the initial stage of the application process may be difficult. You will need to prove beyond a doubt to the adjudicator who reviews your file that you are unable to perform any type of work activity if you hope to receive benefits as a result of your initial disability application.
It is important to understand that 70 percent of the Social Security Disability claims that are received each year are denied by the SSA. If yours is among them, do not give up hope. Consult with a qualified Social Security Disability lawyer to discuss an appeal of your disability case. These professionals can help you understand why your initial application for benefits was denied and can help you gather the additional medical evidence you will need to prove your case to the administrative law judge at your disability hearing.
To learn more about filing for Social Security Disability benefits with a diagnosis of hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex or to learn more about working with a Social Security Disability lawyer, simply fill out the form for a free evaluation of your Social Security Disability case.
