Over 700,000 people in the U.S. are currently living with a brain tumor, and about 71% of these are non-cancerous (benign).
Even though benign brain tumors don’t spread, they can press on parts of the brain that control important body functions, seriously affecting a person’s quality of life.
If you’re experiencing the effects of a brain tumor, you may be eligible for disability benefits.
Consulting experienced lawyers for Social Security benefits can help you know the application process and improve your chances of approval.
Brain Tumors and SSDI
A brain tumor is a group of abnormal cells that grow in the brain or nearby areas, like the nerves, pituitary gland, pineal gland, or the membranes covering the brain.
When a brain tumor starts in the brain or nearby tissues, it’s called a primary brain tumor. The impact of a brain tumor depends on its location and how fast it grows, as these factors affect the nervous system.
There are various types of primary brain tumors, each named after the cells they come from. Here are some common types:
- Meningiomas: The most common type, these tumors grow from the lining of the brain and spinal cord. They are usually harmless and don’t cause major issues.
- Acoustic Neuromas: These develop on the nerves that control balance and hearing.
- Pituitary Adenomas: Found in the pituitary gland, these tumors can change the levels of hormones in the body.
- Gliomas: Starting in the brain or spinal cord, these can lead to symptoms like headaches, seizures, or nerve problems.
- Medulloblastomas: Often seen in children, these tumors begin in the lower back part of the brain and can spread through spinal fluid.
Symptoms and Treatment of Brain Tumors
Symptoms of Brain Tumors
The symptoms of a brain tumor depend on its size, location, and how quickly it is growing. The most common symptom is headaches or noticeable changes in headache patterns. Other signs may include:
- Blurred or double vision, or losing side vision
- Difficulty maintaining balance or walking
- Weakness or paralysis in one part of the body
- Numbness or tingling in an arm or leg
- Trouble speaking or finding words
- Problems with thinking or concentration
- Memory difficulties
- Unexplained nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Changes in behavior or personality
- Hearing issues
Treatment for Brain Tumors
The type of treatment depends on the tumor’s type, size, and location.
- Benign Tumors: If non-cancerous, the doctor might monitor the tumor and the patient’s condition without immediate intervention.
- Surgery: If the tumor can be safely separated from nearby tissues, surgery may be an option. Even partial removal can help ease symptoms.
- Cancerous Tumors: Treatments often include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drugs to attack the tumor.
After treatment, many patients undergo rehabilitation to recover skills like walking, speaking, and thinking.
Qualifying for SSDI with a Brain Tumor
If you have a brain tumor, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in several ways.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a guide called the Blue Book to determine eligibility for benefits. Brain tumors are listed under Section 11.05 as a disabling impairment.
Requirements to Meet the Blue Book Listing
To qualify under Section 11.05 for a benign brain tumor, you must show:
Loss of Movement Control:
An inability to control movement in at least two extremities (e.g., both arms, both legs, or one arm and one leg), OR
Marked Limitations:
A significant physical issue and severe difficulty in one of the following areas:
- Understanding, remembering, and applying information
- Concentrating, persisting, or completing tasks
- Interacting with others
- Managing oneself (e.g., handling emotions, responding to demands, or recognizing hazards)
- Equivalent Impairments
If your condition doesn’t meet these exact criteria, you may still qualify by demonstrating that your impairment is equal in severity and duration to another listing, such as for seizures, strokes, or neurological disorders. For more details, you can even consult Social Security appeal lawyers.
Medical Evidence Required
The SSA relies heavily on medical evidence to assess your claim. This includes:
- Notes from your physician
- Clinic records
- Radiology and lab reports
- Biopsy results
- Information about medications and treatments, along with your response to them
A detailed written statement from your doctor about your diagnosis and recovery outlook can strengthen your application.
By providing thorough medical documentation and demonstrating how your condition impacts your ability to work, you can improve your chances of qualifying for SSDI benefits.
