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Disability for Leukemia

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Common Symptoms and Complications of Leukemia

Leukemia is a critical condition that refers to cancers of the white blood cells (WBCs). It can have dangerous consequences for an individual, because these cells are a vital part of the immune system. White blood cells can help to protect the human body from harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. 

Does Leukemia Qualify for DisabilityWhen a person is diagnosed with the condition, their white blood cells may not work properly. For example, they may divide too quickly, disrupting the normal functioning of the body. Leukemia is the most common cancer in children younger than 15, but it can occur at any age, often in adults older than 55.

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is one of the types of leukemia that commonly affects children who are younger than age 10. The condition can progressively worsen and lead to death. This is why it can be essential to detect it early and initiate the treatment as soon as possible.

Symptoms and complications 

The following are some of the common symptoms that people diagnosed with leukemia may experience: 

  • Fever
  • Weakness
  • Swollen gums
  • Acute headache
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bone pain 
  • Slow-healing cuts
  • Weight loss
  • Skin rashes
  • An enlarged spleen or liver
  • Excessive sweating, especially at night

In the most severe cases, leukemia may spread to the central nervous system and other parts of the body. It can lead to various complications in the following parts of the body:

  • Lungs
  • Testes
  • Heart
  • Kidneys
  • Gastrointestinal tract

If an individual is experiencing these symptoms, they should see a medical professional as soon as possible. Additionally, they can explore options for short-term disability insurance that can help them manage the expenses that arise while they seek treatment.

Living with leukemia

The side effects from leukemia treatments may also have a negative impact on an individual’s ability to work or perform their daily tasks. Some patients even experience acute symptoms that require immediate medical attention and hospitalization. While it may not be possible to avoid all side effects of treatment, scientific advancements to therapies may help reduce the symptoms. The reaction and response to treatments can vary from patient to patient. 

The response to the treatment may depend on the following factors: 

  • The type of treatment
  • Types of drugs used
  • Drug or radiation dose amounts
  • Duration of therapy
  • Other health conditions the patient experiences, such as diabetes or kidney disease

To limit the side effects from treatment, an individual can:

  • Avoid drinking alcohol 
  • Avoid smoking
  • Limit their consumption of spicy foods
  • Eat dry toast or crackers
  • Be physically active and perform daily exercise, as tolerated

If you have leukemia, it is important to inform your doctor immediately if you experience a fever or otherwise feel unwell. 

Does Leukemia Qualify for Disability Benefits? 

Yes, leukemia is a type of cancer that may make a person eligible for disability benefits. The patient will need to provide evidence that demonstrates that they meet the requirements set forth within the Blue Book to get approved. For disability for leukemia, an individual will generally need to prove that they have been unable to work for at least a year.

If someone does not meet the SSA listings, they may still be able to qualify for benefits through a medical-vocational allowance. The SSA will consider the limitations that the condition causes and how it prevents a person from performing various tasks. 

Can I Get Disability Benefits for Leukemia?

You may qualify for disability benefits for leukemia if you meet the SSA’s requirements and eligibility criteria. The SSA will consider your application for approval if you can demonstrate that you are suffering from one of the conditions listed below:

  1. Acute leukemia: This requires a diagnosis of either lymphocytic leukemia or myeloid leukemia.
  2. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML): This is a condition in which the bone marrow produces too many white blood cells. Someone who has this condition must be able to provide evidence that the disease continues to progress after the initial treatments and worsens as time goes on. 

You may have to be patient as you go through the process of seeking disability benefits. In many cases, the Social Security Administration rejects applicants the first time they submit paperwork.   

Your application for leukemia will be considered by the SSA only after an official diagnosis. Until then, you should collect all of the evidence that can help you to prove your disability. You can seek the assistance of an experienced disability lawyer who can help you file a claim and liaise with the local Social Security Office.