About Strokes

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or “brain attack,” occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted. Without adequate blood flow and oxygen, brain cells begin to die, which can result in permanent brain damage, long-term disability, or death.

The lasting effects of a stroke vary depending on the area of the brain affected and the severity of the damage. While some individuals recover fully, many stroke survivors experience permanent physical, cognitive, speech, or sensory impairments.

Types of Strokes

There are two primary types of strokes.

Ischemic Stroke

An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot or fatty deposit blocks blood flow to the brain.

Common causes include:

• Blood clots

• Cholesterol buildup

• Narrowed arteries

• Fatty deposits within blood vessels

Approximately 80% of all strokes are ischemic strokes.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or bursts, causing bleeding within the brain tissue.

Common causes may include:

• High blood pressure

• Brain aneurysms

• Blood vessel abnormalities

Hemorrhagic strokes are generally associated with higher fatality rates and more severe complications.

Symptoms and Lasting Effects of a Stroke

Symptoms and long-term impairments depend on the area of the brain damaged during the stroke.

Common complications may include:

• Paralysis or weakness

• Difficulty walking

• Loss of coordination

• Speech problems

• Difficulty communicating

• Vision problems

• Hearing problems

• Memory problems

• Cognitive impairment

• Difficulty swallowing

• Loss of sensation

• Chronic pain

• Emotional or personality changes

Some individuals may require long-term rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy following a stroke.

Qualifying for Social Security Disability After a Stroke

The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates stroke-related disability claims under Listing 11.04 – Central Nervous System Vascular Accident within the neurological disorders section of the Blue Book.

To qualify, the applicant must continue experiencing severe limitations more than three months after the stroke occurred.

Listing 11.04 – Central Nervous System Vascular Accident

An applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements.

Requirement A – Aphasia or Communication Problems

The applicant must have:

• Sensory aphasia
  or

• Motor aphasia

resulting in ineffective speech or inability to communicate effectively.

Requirement B – Motor Function Disorganization

The applicant must have:

• Significant and persistent disorganization of motor function in two extremities

resulting in:

• Sustained disturbance of gross motor movements

• Difficulty with fine motor skills

• Gait abnormalities

• Problems with balance and posture

Qualifying Under Other Listings

Many stroke survivors experience permanent impairments involving other body systems.

In these situations, the SSA may also evaluate the applicant under additional Blue Book listings related to the affected body system.

Examples may include:

• Vision impairments

• Hearing impairments

• Speech disorders

• Cognitive disorders

• Mental health conditions

For example, stroke survivors with severe vision or hearing loss may also be evaluated under the listings found in Section 2.00 – Special Senses and Speech.

Medical-Vocational Allowance

Even if an applicant does not meet the exact requirements of Listing 11.04, they may still qualify for disability benefits through a medical-vocational allowance.

The SSA considers:

• Age

• Education

• Work history

• Physical limitations

• Cognitive limitations

• Ability to perform unskilled work

Limitations caused by strokes may interfere with:

• Walking and standing

• Use of the hands and arms

• Communication

• Concentration and memory

• Balance and coordination

• Maintaining consistent attendance and productivity

Medical Evidence for a Stroke Disability Claim

Strong medical evidence is important in stroke-related disability cases. Helpful documentation may include:

• Hospital records

• Brain imaging such as MRI or CT scans

• Neurological examinations

• Speech therapy records

• Physical and occupational therapy records

• Cognitive evaluations

• Physician statements regarding functional limitations

The SSA evaluates how stroke-related impairments affect mobility, communication, cognitive functioning, coordination, independence, and the ability to maintain full-time employment.