Symptoms vs. Medical Evidence: Why You Need a Lawyer for Your Disability Claim

Understanding the Difference

When applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, it's crucial to understand the distinction between symptoms and medical evidence. While your symptoms are real and can significantly impact your daily life, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires concrete medical evidence to support your claim.

What are Symptoms?

Symptoms are subjective experiences of illness or injury. They can include:

Pain
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Shortness of breath
Anxiety or depression

What is Medical Evidence?

Medical evidence is objective information that supports your symptoms. It can include:

Medical records
Lab tests
Imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans)
Treatment records
Doctor's opinions

Why is Medical Evidence Important?

The SSA relies heavily on medical evidence to determine the severity of your impairment and your ability to work. Without sufficient medical evidence, your claim may be denied, even if your symptoms are debilitating.

How a Lawyer Can Help

A disability lawyer can help you:

Gather Medical Evidence: They can work with your doctors to obtain the necessary medical records and test results.
Identify Supporting Evidence: They can identify additional evidence, such as vocational expert reports or witness statements, to strengthen your claim.
Present Your Case Effectively: They can present your case persuasively to the SSA, highlighting the medical evidence that supports your symptoms.
Appeal Denials: If your claim is denied, they can file an appeal and represent you throughout the appeals process.

Don't Let Your Claim Be Denied

If you're struggling with a disability and need help with your SSD or SSI claim, call London Disability today at 844-340-1200 for a free case review. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the complex process and increase your chances of approval.

Call Now for a Free Case Review!