Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Pituitary Gland Disorders
Pituitary disorders occur when the pituitary gland makes too much or too little of a particular hormone. Most often, these disorders are caused by a pituitary tumor. Most pituitary tumors are noncancerous (benign). But when a tumor grows on or near the pituitary gland, the tumor can:
- Change hormone production, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, stunted or excessive growth, high blood pressure, low sex drive or mood changes.
- Press against the pituitary gland, optic nerves or brain tissue, causing vision problems or headaches.
To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 9.00 of the Blue Book.
Do Pituitary Gland Disorders Qualify for Disability?
Pituitary gland disorders are included under the listing for endocrine system impairments (Section 9.00). Because a wide range of symptoms can be caused by pituitary gland disorders, you may qualify for benefits using a condition that is caused by a specific imbalance caused by a lack of a particular hormone. If an adult is experiencing a lack of growth hormone, he or she may be evaluated under the listing for the musculoskeletal system (Section 1.00).
If you suffer from a hydration problem caused by your pituitary gland disorder, you would be evaluated for a genitourinary problem under the listing for dehydration underneath Section 6.00 of the Blue Book. You have to meet the specific criteria indicated under that listing.
Because of the diversity of the pituitary gland, you may suffer from different symptoms and several listings may be applicable to your particular situation. There are some problems caused by pituitary gland disorders that aren’t included in the Blue Book. In that case, you may need to use medical-vocational allowance with a residual functional capacity (RFC) based on the severity of your symptoms clearly indicating your limitations and your symptoms that are experienced.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with a pituitary gland disorder and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
