Social Security and Sleep Disorders

If you suffer from a sleep-related disorder, you know the real value of a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, many Americans suffer from diseases like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. If you cannot work due to a sleep-related condition, McCroskey Law’s Social Security and SSI lawyers are here to help.

Obstructive sleep apnea is one of the more common sleep-related disorders. Patients with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly while sleeping. They will awake abruptly with shortness of breath throughout the night, due to their interrupted breathing. For some sleep apnea patients, a CPAP or BiPAP machines successfully manage the condition. However, not everyone can tolerate a bulky and uncomfortable CPAP mask.

People with uncontrolled sleep apnea often suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness. They may fall asleep easily, and without warning. While medications may help with some of this fatigue, the fatigue can still be disabling.

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological condition. People with restless leg syndrome experience pain, itching, or a “creepy crawly” feeling in their legs, and an often irrestible urge to move them. Symptoms are generally worst when the person is resting. While there are medications to help with restless leg syndrome, its symptoms can be incredibly disruptive and potentially disabling.

Narcolepsy involves the disruption of normal sleep-wake cycles. People who suffer from narcolepsy often experience daytime hypersomnolence, or excessive daytime sleepiness. They may fall asleep quickly, and without warning. These episodes are usually of short duration, but can severely restrict daily activities. Again, while medications help some narcolepsy patients, others continue to struggle with severe symptoms.

If you have a sleep-related condition, and cannot work, call McCroskey Law today. Our Social Security lawyers will perform a comprehensive interview, and advise of your legal rights. Initial appointments are always free, and our offices are conveniently located in Muskegon, Grand Rapids, and Battle Creek. Contact us today.