Diabetes Mellitus 

Diabetes is a disease in which a person has high blood sugar, either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or because cells do not respond to the insulin that is produced.

Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Comparison

There is no known preventive measure against type 1 diabetes, however, type 2 diabetes may be reversed in the early stages by a variety of measures and medications.  Most diabetic cases seen by the Social Security Administration are type 2 diabetes that have gone untreated for some time and now there are other medical problems caused by the diabetes.   Diabetics can develop neuropathy in their legs, which causes numbness and burning foot pain making it difficult for them to stand or walk.  Diabetics can also develop vascular damage, which can lead to ulcers on their feet and legs and ultimately to amputation.  The medical evidence presented to the Social Security judge will focus on the particular medical problem(s) that the diabetes has caused.  If the diabetes has produced peripheral neuropathy, evidence showing how the person walks will need to be obtained.  A description in the medical notes will satisfy the Social Security Administration.  Medical reports or records showing the person was treated for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are important.  If the person has had persistent ulcers or surgery as a result of vascular damage in the legs, these records must be presented to the judge.  If the person’s vision has been affected by diabetes, reports from the ophthalmologists must be submitted.  Blurred vision is a common complaint leading to a diabetes diagnosis.  Sometimes, blindness can result from diabetes.

Serious Medical Problems the Social Security Administration Looks For:  

• Neuropathy resulting in disorganization of motor function
• Acidosis
• Retinitis proliferans
• Cataracts
• Impaired  arterial blood flow
• Coronary artery disease
• Skin breakdown
• Foot ulcers
• Nephropathy