Chicago Multiple Sclerosis Attorneys
Illinois Social Security Disability Lawyers
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. MS is caused by damage to the protective layer that surrounds nerve cells. When the nerve covering becomes damaged, nerve signals slow down or may stop altogether. The nerve damage is caused by inflammation and can occur along any area of the brain, optic nerve, and spinal cord.
Symptoms of MS vary widely because the location and severity of each episode varies greatly. The duration of episodes can range from days to months, with intermittent periods of reduced or no symptoms. Symptoms can affect a number of bodily systems and functions and may include:
- Loss of balance
- Muscle spasms
- Numbness
- Problems moving arms or legs
- Problems walking
- Coordination difficulties
- Tremor or weakness in one or more arms or legs
- Bowel and bladder difficulties
- Double vision or vision loss
- Eye discomfort
- Decreased attention span, poor judgment, and memory loss
- Difficulty reasoning and solving problems
- Depression or feelings of sadness
- Dizziness and balance problems
- Hearing loss
- Slurred or difficult-to-understand speech
- Trouble chewing and swallowing
Social Security Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes multiple sclerosis as a chronic illness or “impairment” under Section 11.09 of its Listing of Impairments. If you have any of the following symptoms, or any combination of these or other symptoms, that prevent you from working, you may qualify for Social Security benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
- Difficulty with walking and other motor skills
- Difficulty seeing
- Difficulty concentrating or completing simple tasks
- Difficulty remembering
- Extreme fatigue, regardless of sleep
- Speech impairment
- Side effects of medication(s)
Social Security Disability Experience You Can Trust
The experienced Chicago social security disability attorneys at Ankin Law understand the various medical conditions that may qualify as a disability under social security laws, including multiple sclerosis and other medical conditions that may be a result of MS, such as depression or motor function issues. We take the time to learn about how MS impacts your daily life and your ability to work. We will thoroughly explain the social security disability laws and requirements to you, and assist you throughout the application process. Contact one of the trusted social security disability attorneys at Ankin Law at (872) 529-9377 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your multiple sclerosis condition and learn more about social security disability benefits.
