When you or a family member is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you soon find out that this condition will progress slowly and may cause you to become disabled. As MA disability attorneys, we work with people who are concerned about their future earnings and need help with the Social Security Administration (SSA) disability process.
What is Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s disease, referred to as Parkinsonian Syndrome in the SSA disability “Listing of Impairments,” is a disorder in the brain that causes tremors, difficulty walking, and movement and coordination problems. Parkinson’s causes the nerve cells in the brain that make dopamine to be destroyed, which in turn causes a loss of muscle function.
This condition mainly affects adults over the age of 50, but is also seen in younger adults. Sometimes it runs in families and both men and women have it. It generally progresses slowly.
Symptoms
Because Parkinson’s is chronic and progresses over a period of time, you may begin to experience symptoms before you suspect it. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Abnormal blinking
- Trouble with swallowing
- Drooling
- Balance and walking difficulties
- Pain and/or achiness in the muscles
- Difficulty with getting out of a chair, starting to walk, continuing to walk, and fine motor movements
- Muscular rigidity
- Tremors that usually happen when you are resting or extending a limb, stop when you move, and worsen when you are stressed or tired
- Slowed and/or quiet speaking
- Some mental problems, such as anxiety, confusion, dementia, and memory loss
While a cure for Parkinson’s has not yet been discovered, its symptoms can be treated successfully with medications, lifestyle adjustments and sometimes surgery. The earlier this disease is diagnosed and treatment begins, the better the prognosis. You should see a doctor at the first signs.
Eventually, many Parkinson’s disease sufferers become disabled and unable to work. But, unlike an unexpected disabling injury or illness, you have time with Parkinson’s to plan ahead. As disability lawyers, we suggest that, once diagnosed, you think about what financial help you will need to survive should you become fully disabled.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 508.283.5500 to schedule your free consultation.
