Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome and the Social Security Disability Compassionate Allowances Program
Many applicants are aware that the Social Security Disability application process can take months or even years. The problem is that some people can’t wait months to receive disability benefits. These individuals suffer from severely debilitating conditions. Enduring the wait for disability benefits would only worsen their conditions.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognized this in 2008 when they began the Compassionate Allowances. Under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines, some applicants can be approved for benefits in as little as 10 days. Individuals with qualifying conditions do not have to wait months or years for disability benefits to begin.
Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome is one of the conditions now included in the Compassionate Allowances listings.
Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome Condition and Symptoms
Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome is a type of long QT syndrome. Long QT syndrome is a heart condition in which the heart muscles take longer than usual to recharge between beats. This particular type of long QT syndrome is very rare and affects only 1 to 6 in every 1 million children. The disorder is only responsible for approximately 10 percent of all cases of long QT syndrome. Also known as JLNS, the condition occurs when congenital sensorineural hearing loss and long QT syndrome occur together. There are a number of symptoms associated with Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome including:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Increased fainting
- Conduction deafness
- Seizures
- Cyanosis
- Short loss of consciousness
- Deep sleep
- Prolonged QT interval
- Hyperchronic anemia
Approximately 50 percent of those who suffer from Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome will have a cardiac event before age 3. Sudden cardiac death is low, however, among individuals who are younger than 5 years of age. Those who are of high risk can undergo treatment and receive an implantable cardioverter defibrillator after they reach age 5. Treatment is important since more than 50 percent of children with JLNS will die before they turn 15—if the condition is left untreated.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits with Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome
In order to qualify under the Compassionate Allowance under guidelines, applicants must provide certain medical evidence to support their claim. In cases of Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome, this evidence includes:
- Clinical history and examination that describes the diagnostic features of the impairment
- Complete otologic examination and audiometric testing within 2 months of the otologic examination
- Clinical description of the arrhythmias and response to medication, implanted pacemaker, or implanted cardiac defibrillator
- Response to episodes of syncope or near syncope
- Results of an audiologic evaluation for extent of hearing loss
- Results of a cardiac examination including electrocardiogram (ECG) calculation of long QTc intervals
- Genetic test results for the presence of mutations in either KCNQ1 or KCNE1 genes
The above-mentioned medical evidence will help the SSA determine whether or not your claim qualifies for processing under the compassionate allowances program. Proper medical evidence will help ensure a quick approval of the applicant’s Social Security Disability benefits.
Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome and Your Social Security Disability Case
Although legal representation is not required to apply for disability benefits, it is advisable to contact an attorney or advocate if you plan on applying under the Compassionate Allowances program. A disability attorney can help you submit your application in such a way that you will have the best chance of an initial approval without the need for appeal.
To find out more about applying for disability benefits due to a case of Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome or to receive a free evaluation of your Social Security Disability claim, click here.
