South Carolina Social Security Lawyers: Down Syndrome
What You Need to Know
Down Syndrome (or “Downs,” as it is commonly referred to) is described as a complex of physical characteristics, delayed physical and mental development. It is very difficult to receive disability benefits from the SSA for this syndrome.
Down Syndrome is a condition in which there are three copies of chromosome 21 within the cells of the body instead of the normal two copies per cell. Social Security considers people eligible for benefits that have confirmed non-mosaic Downs, as they are disabled from birth.
According to the National Institute of Health and Child Development, several common physical signs of Down Syndrome include:
- Flat face with an upward slant to the eye, short neck, and abnormally shaped ears
- Deep crease in the palm of the hand
- White spots on the iris of the eye
- Poor muscle tone, loose ligaments
- Small hands and feet
There are a variety of other health conditions that are often seen in people who have Down Syndrome, including:
- Congenital heart disease
- Hearing problems
- Intestinal problems, such as blocked small bowel or esophagus
- Celiac disease
- Eye problems, such as cataracts
- Thyroid dysfunctions
- Skeletal problems
- Dementia—similar to Alzheimer’s
SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS
Those affected by Down Syndrome may meet a Social Security Disability Administration Listing, and as a result qualify for benefits. Social Security differentiates between two types of the disease: non-mosaic and mosaic Down Syndrome.
If you or a loved one has non-mosaic Down Syndrome, which means you have an extra chromosome in every cell of your body, you are considered disabled from the time of birth and can get benefits from the Social Security Administration.
If you have mosaic Down Syndrome, which means some cells in your body have an extra chromosome and others do not, then your symptoms must significantly impair your ability to work. Furthermore, the individual body parts that are affected must be impaired in certain ways that meet the Social Security Criteria in order for you to receive benefits.
Talk With Us About Your Injury
The best way to learn about SSD and SSI after an accident is to talk with one of our Social Security Disability Attorneys at the Strom Law Firm. 803-252-4800 Call us for free and find out if you are eligible to receive benefits.
