Getting Disability for Conditions That Get Worse Over Time
Not every disability happens suddenly. Sometimes your health changes slowly, over months or years. But can you get SSDI for progressive or gradual conditions?
If you’re struggling with a progressive or degenerative condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)—even if you’re not fully disabled yet.
But the SSDI process for these conditions can be complicated. Here’s what you need to know.
What Counts as a “Gradual” or Progressive Condition?
You may have a condition that started with mild discomfort or occasional flare-ups, but over time, it’s become harder to work, move, focus, or even get through daily tasks.
Many medical conditions worsen over time. Some common ones include:
- Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Diabetes with nerve or organ damage
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
- Chronic pain conditions
- Heart disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- and more.
These conditions may not stop you from working right away. But the symptoms are there: pain, weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, balance problems, cognitive issues.
As these symptoms increase, your ability to work consistently and safely can decrease.
Proving a Condition That Changes Over Time
The SSA wants to see proof that your condition prevents you from working full-time right now, not just that it might in the future.
This means your claim needs to show:
- Symptoms are worsening, and not staying the same
- Your condition affects your daily function in clear, specific ways
- You’ve attempted treatment, but you still can’t work consistently
- Your medical records document the progression, not just the diagnosis
This is where many claims get denied: not because you’re not sick, but because your application didn’t present the story of your decline over time in a way that convinces the SSA.
How to Build a Strong SSDI Claim for a Progressive Condition
To build your case for the SSA, you need strong documentation. You can strengthen your claim by:
- Going to regular medical appointments (even when symptoms feel “normal” for you)
- Telling your doctor exactly how symptoms affect your work, and not downplaying it
- Tracking your symptoms in a daily journal
- Asking for referrals to specialists to show you have expert evaluation
- Keeping records of job changes, reduced hours, accommodations, or lost work
Altogether, this documentation can show the SSA a clear timeline of how your condition has progressed.
A lot of this might feel difficult to gather on your own, especially while dealing with your symptoms. That’s where we can help. Our attorneys help gather and strengthen your claim, and we don’t make anything until we win your case.
Why Applying Sooner Can Actually Help You
Many people wait too long to apply because they hope they can “push through” or get better with time. That’s understandable, but waiting can make the process harder.
Applying before you lose all work ability helps because:
- Your work history is recent and easier to verify
- Your medical records show ongoing decline
- You have a better chance of documenting how symptoms affect your job
You don’t have to wait until you’re bedridden to apply. SSDI exists to support people who can’t work full-time on a reliable basis – and if that’s you, it’s fine to apply now.
How Our Lawyers Can Help Your Case
As SSDI lawyers, we know how to explain your condition’s progression in a way the SSA understands. We can:
- Review your medical records to highlight the key changes
- Work with your doctors to get strong statements about your limitations
- Create a detailed timeline that shows your decline over time
- Represent you during appeals or hearings if needed
We help connect the dots, so you don’t have to fight the system while dealing with your health. And we don’t get paid anything unless and until we win your case.
You Don’t Have to Fight This Alone
If your health is getting worse and working full-time is becoming impossible, now is the time to talk to someone who can help you understand your SSDI options.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Our award-winning team will look at your work history, medical records, and current symptoms and help you figure out the strongest path forward, so you get the help you need.