Is POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) A Disability?

Many Nevada residents with chronic health conditions often spend years trying to find the proper diagnosis for symptoms that interfere with their daily lives. People who are ill without an explanation can become frustrated and even depressed over the uncertainty of their condition. This is especially true for those with conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which can be difficult to diagnose.

What Is POTS And How Is It Diagnosed?

POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) is a condition where your heart rate increases abnormally when you stand up, often without a drop in blood pressure. This leads to symptoms including dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating that can severely impact daily activities. It’s considered an invisible disability because symptoms are often difficult to see and may be misinterpreted as stress or anxiety.

The underlying medical issue with POTS is that the body doesn’t respond quickly enough to compensate for the blood pressure changes that occur when standing, leading to a rapid increase in heart rate. POTS can affect people of all ages, but it’s more common in young adults, particularly women.

POTS is diagnosed through several methods, as there are no specific tests designed solely for POTS. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Tilt Table Test – The patient is strapped to a table and slowly tilted from a lying position to a standing position while heart rate and blood pressure are monitored.
• 10-Minute Standing Test – The patient’s heart rate and blood pressure are measured before and during standing.
• Additional Testing – Doctors may order blood tests, heart tests, and other evaluations to rule out other conditions causing similar symptoms.

A diagnosis of POTS is usually determined when a person’s heart rate increases by more than 30 beats per minute (or 40 beats per minute in children and teens) within 10 minutes of standing, without a significant drop in blood pressure.

Because POTS is an invisible disability, it can be difficult to diagnose and may take time to identify. While seeking a diagnosis, it’s important to keep detailed records of all medical treatments and tests, which will be essential for any disability claim.

Is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome Considered A Disability By Social Security?

Yes, POTS is considered a disability and can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits under SSI or SSDI if the condition prevents you from working and meets the SSA’s criteria for disability. POTS is recognized as an autonomic nervous system disorder that can cause significant symptoms that potentially impact a person’s ability to maintain employment.

POTS is considered an autonomic nervous system disorder that can cause significant symptoms including dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and fatigue. These symptoms can occur every time a person with POTS stands up. Since these symptoms are ongoing, they can substantially impact a person’s ability to work or participate in daily activities, potentially qualifying them as disabled in Nevada under Social Security Administration guidelines.

How Do I Qualify For Disability Benefits With A POTS Diagnosis In Nevada?

To qualify for disability benefits with POTS in Nevada, you need thorough medical documentation of your diagnosis, symptom severity, functional limitations, treatment attempts, and inability to perform substantial gainful employment. The condition must prevent you from working and meet the SSA’s disability criteria.

If you’ve been diagnosed with POTS, you may qualify for disability benefits, but you must meet certain criteria and take specific steps:

1. Comprehensive Medical Records – Since POTS is considered an invisible disability, it may take time to get a clear diagnosis. Always advocate for yourself and keep detailed records of all tests, specialist visits, and treatment plans.
2. Clear Diagnosis Documentation – Ensure your POTS diagnosis is clearly documented, including the severity and duration of your symptoms.
3. Functional Limitations Evidence – Your medical records must detail how POTS affects your ability to perform specific tasks and activities, including limitations in standing, walking, concentration, and other activities.
4. Symptom Severity Documentation – The severity and duration of your symptoms should be thoroughly documented, showing how they impact your daily life and ability to work.
5. Treatment Compliance – You must demonstrate that you’ve been following prescribed medical treatment plans and that your symptoms persist despite treatment.
6. Work Limitation Evidence – The Social Security Administration requires evidence that your POTS diagnosis prevents you from performing substantial gainful employment.

Once all these aspects have been documented by medical professionals, you can begin the application process with the SSA. For Nevada residents, having a condition that qualifies for disability benefits is just the first step in a complex process.

How Do I Apply For Disability Insurance From The Social Security Administration With POTS?

To apply for disability benefits with POTS, gather all medical documentation, file an application with the SSA (online, by phone, or in person), choose between SSDI or SSI based on your situation, respond to any SSA requests for information, and consider seeking representation if your claim is denied.

Filing for disability benefits for a POTS diagnosis can be a challenging and time-consuming experience. Patience and accuracy are essential, as even minor mistakes could result in a denial or delays. Nevada residents should follow these steps when applying for Social Security in Nevada:

1. Gather All Documentation – Organize all medical tests and diagnosis information for easy access when completing your claim forms.
2. File an Application with the SSA – You can apply in one of three ways:
   • Visit a Social Security office in person
   • Apply online through the SSA website
   • Apply over the phone
3. Choose the Appropriate Program – Select the disability option that best fits your circumstances:
   • SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) – For those with sufficient work history
   • SSI (Supplemental Security Income) – For those with limited resources and income
4. Monitor Application Status – You’ll be notified of the results of your application. You may need to submit additional information before a determination is made. Always read and promptly respond to any SSA correspondence.
5. Prepare for Possible Denial – If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal (more on this below).
6. Consider Professional Representation – You may want to consider seeking help from representatives who specialize in disability claims. They can help navigate the application process or appeal and increase your chances of approval.

If you are approved for benefits, you’ll still need to periodically requalify based on your circumstances and disability status. The SSA will request updated information to verify continued eligibility. Failing to respond could result in benefit termination.

Is There A Statute Of Limitations For Filing A POTS Disability Claim?

There is no formal statute of limitations for applying for disability benefits with POTS in Nevada, but timing is still important. Here’s what you should know about when to file:

• Optimal filing window: While you can technically file on the first day of disability, it’s best to wait until at least the 9th day (since benefits don’t cover the first week) but file no later than 49 days after your disability began.
• Late applications: If you miss the 49-day window, you may still be eligible for benefits if you have a valid reason for the delay.
• Benefit payments: The Social Security Administration has a mandatory waiting period for disability benefits, so the sooner you apply, the earlier you may begin receiving assistance.

Remember that qualifying for SSDI benefits also requires having earned sufficient work credits, typically by working for at least 5 of the last 10 years.

What Should I Do If My Disability Claim For POTS Is Denied?

Denials of disability claims are common, particularly for invisible conditions like POTS. These denials often result from incomplete applications or information not being submitted to the SSA in a timely manner. If your POTS disability claim is denied, don’t lose hope.

You have 60 days after receiving a denial letter to request a reconsideration, which means a different SSA representative will review your case. If the reconsideration is also denied, you can then request a hearing before an administrative law judge through the Social Security appeal process.

Many Nevada residents find that seeking help from representatives who specialize in disability claims significantly improves their chances of approval during the appeals process. Our representatives understand the specific challenges of proving disability with conditions like POTS and can help ensure your case is presented effectively.

Need To File A POTS Disability Claim? We Can Help

Navigating the Social Security disability process with POTS syndrome can be challenging, especially since it’s considered an “invisible disability.” Throughout this article, we’ve covered how POTS qualifies as a disability, what documentation you need, application strategies, timelines, and what to do if your claim is denied.

The key takeaway is that while POTS can qualify you for disability benefits, success often depends on thorough medical documentation, understanding Social Security’s requirements, and navigating a complex application process correctly.

At Harris Disability Law, we’ve helped numerous Nevada residents with POTS and other invisible disabilities successfully navigate the Social Security system. Our experienced representatives understand the unique challenges you face and how to effectively present your case to maximize your chances of approval.

We know that every POTS case is unique, which is why we offer personalized guidance through every step of the process—from initial application to appeals if necessary. Our knowledge of Nevada Social Security disability requirements can help you avoid common pitfalls that lead to denials.

Don’t struggle with this complex process alone. Schedule a free consultation with our representatives today to discuss your POTS disability claim and learn how we can help you secure the benefits you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About POTS And Disability Benefits

If you’re a Nevada resident struggling with POTS and need assistance with your disability claim, contact Harris Disability Law today for a free consultation. Our experienced representatives understand the unique challenges of invisible disabilities and can help guide you through the process.