Leigh’s Disease and Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability Lawyer
Typically, applying for and receiving social security disability benefits can take many months. But what if your disabling condition is so severe that you cannot wait? Leigh’s disease is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is Leigh’s Disease?
Leigh’s disease is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive regression of physical and cognitive abilities. Leigh’s disease is caused by genetic mutations in one or more of 30 different genes primarily involved in energy production in a part of the cell called the mitochondrion. The mitochondrion is a cellular structure whose job is to use oxygen to convert nutrients from food into energy for the body’s cells. Disruption of normal mitochondrial processes damages tissues, and the symptoms of Leigh’s disease are, in large part, the result of lesions that develop in the brain because of the damaged cells. The disease generally presents within the first two years of life and the prognosis for affected individuals is poor; most die before age 10, though some have survived into their teenage years.
Leigh’s Disease Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of Leigh’s disease include:
- Poor sucking
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of head control
- Psychomotor regression
- Involuntary muscle movements
- Balance problems
- Paralysis of eye muscles
- Rapid eye movements
- Respiratory problems
- Thickening of the heart muscle
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk with a doctor immediately.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits and Leigh’s Disease
Leigh’s disease automatically qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Leigh’s disease, then you are considered disabled for at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Leigh’s disease, contact an experienced social security disability lawyer today. Please call us at 1-800-882-5500 or fill out a free consultation form for a free evaluation of your social security disability case.
