Stroke

What is a stroke?

A stroke is a sudden interruption in the blood supply to the brain. Most strokes are caused by an abrupt blockage of arteries leading to the brain (ischemic stroke). Others are caused when a blood vessel bursts and blood leaks into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).

What are the symptoms of a stroke?

Symptoms of a stroke include trouble speaking and understanding, paralysis, weakness or numbness in your face, arms or legs, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, a sudden severe headache, stumbling, sudden dizziness or loss of balance. Sometimes some or all of these symptoms may resolve within weeks, but sometimes they take much longer to resolve, if they ever do. When these symptoms fail to resolve, they can have a lasting impact on your ability to function at home, let alone work on a job.

A mini-stroke or transient ischemic attack can last as little as five minutes to an hour, but the risk of permanent damage to the tissues can be severe and could be disabling.

Can you qualify for disability benefits after having a stroke?

The symptoms of a stroke can have massive limitations on your ability to work. If you are unable to speak clearly or find the right words to express yourself for more than 3 months after your stroke, you might be found disabled. If you can’t stand up from a seated position, can’t balance while walking or standing, or if your original weakness has left you unable to use your arms effectively, the Social Security Administration (SSA) might find you disabled. SSA will use your medical records to determine the severity of your ability to function in your past work environment or in a less strenuous work environment.

How can Balin Law help?

Balin Law will help your frame your post-stroke issues in a way that will help you obtain Social Security Disability (SSD) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits as early as possible. We will work closely with you to successfully navigate the complexities of Social Security law.