Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) 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? Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is LBD?
LBD is a form of dementia resembling both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, though is more closely related to the former and can be used to describe cases of Parkinson’s with a dementia component. LBD is a rapid and aggressive form of dementia characterized by spherical masses of proteins (Lewy bodies) that develop inside nerve cells and displace other cellular structures. These invading aggregates of protein account for the loss of cognitive function and motor function. One of the distinguishing features of the disease is its dangerous hypersensitivity to certain kinds of drugs often used to treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. There is no cure for the disease, but it is generally thought that a collaborative, comprehensive approach to treatment focused on controlling individual symptoms without worsening others yields the greatest quality of life for affected individuals. The cause of LBD remains unknown and there is no cure.
LBD Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of LBD include:
- Progressive dementia
- Inability to focus
- Drifting in and out of alertness
- Transient, unexplained loss of consciousness
- Memory loss
- Visual hallucinations
- Abnormal facial expressions
- Sleep disorders
- Repeated falls, loss of muscle coordination
- Fainting
- Difficulty swallowing
- Psychiatric disturbances
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 LBD
LBD 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 LBD, 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 LBD, 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.
