Pituitary Gland Disorders and Social Security Disability

Pituitary gland disorders can wreak havoc on an individual's ability to perform normal day-to-day tasks. In some cases, the disorders can also lead to an inability to maintain full-time employment, resulting in a loss of income and lack of medical benefits. This can put significant financial stress on an individual who is suffering from this condition, as bills spiral out of control and medical expenses go unpaid. Fortunately, for some, Social Security Disability benefits may be able to help. If you are suffering from a pituitary gland disorder and are unable to work due to the symptoms that your condition causes, the following information will help you understand the Social Security Disability claim process and how the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews claims that are based on this diagnosis.

Pituitary Gland Disorders - Condition and Symptoms

The pituitary gland is an organ located at the base of the brain and is considered to be the master gland of the body. As such, it produces and releases many of the hormones that travel through your system. These hormones are responsible for stimulating the production of other types of hormones by various organs within the body. Some of the hormones that the pituitary gland is responsible for creating include prolactin, growth hormone, adrenocorticotropin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, antidiuretic hormone, lutenizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone.

When an individual suffers from a pituitary gland disorder, these hormones are not produced and secreted properly, resulting in an array of medical complications. Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the disorder. Common symptoms of a pituitary gland disorder include sexual dysfunction, hot flashes, irregular menstrual cycles, dry skin, hair loss, memory loss, fatigue, weakness and other symptoms.

The treatment for a pituitary gland disorder will vary depending on the reason for the disorder. If a pituitary tumor is causing the symptoms, removal of the tumor may address the condition. In some cases, the cause of a pituitary gland disorder remains unknown and symptoms are not responsive to treatment. In these cases, the individual faces a long-term disability and Social Security Disability benefits are in order.

Filing for Social Security Disability with Pituitary Gland Disorders

The SSA does recognize pituitary gland disorders as a disabling condition in its Blue Book of Medical Listings. According to Section 9.00B1, an individual may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if he or she suffers from a disruption in the hormone production and normal functioning of the body's other endocrine glands due to this disorder. However, the SSA reviews these disability claims on a case-by-case basis, evaluating the severity of the symptoms that are caused by the hormone imbalance. Because of this, it is crucial that you obtain sufficient medical evidence to prove your disability to the SSA.

When you fill out the claim paperwork that is required by the SSA, make sure that you answer all of the questions in detail and with thorough answers. Your goal is to make the adjudicator reviewing your file understand exactly how your condition interferes with your day-to-day life and your ability to maintain employment. When submitting your Social Security Disability claim, also make sure that you provide as much medical evidence as possible including a complete copy of your medical records and written statements from your treating physicians. This will increase your chance of a favorable decision regarding your disability claim.

Pituitary Gland Disorders and Your Social Security Disability Case

Because Social Security Disability claims that are based on pituitary gland disorders are decided on a case-by-case basis, it can be harder to prove your disability and you may not be approved for benefits during the initial stage of the application process. If this is the case, do not give up hope. You will simply need to appeal the SSA's decision to deny your Social Security Disability benefits. Remember, nearly 70 percent of all disability claims are denied during the initial stage of the application process.

When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, be sure to consult with a disability advocate or attorney. If your initial claim has already been denied, these professionals can help you understand why your initial claim for disability benefits was denied. They will also work with you to gather the medical evidence that you will need in order to support your Social Security Disability claim and will be able to represent you through each stage of the disability process. While you may be tempted to pursue a disability claim on your own, it is important to note that the statistics show your chances of a favorable appeal outcome are increased with proper representation.