What is Liver Disease?

Not referring to one specific condition, “liver disease” has been defined as different diseases and disorders which result in the improper functioning of the liver.  In some circumstances, the liver may cease to function completely.  Liver diseases and disorders are typically diagnosed by virtue of abnormal findings resulting from liver function tests.  According to MedicinePlus.com, there are nearly 20 different diseases and disorders of the liver that are currently known.

Liver disease is also referred to as Hepatic disease, the most common characteristic of which includes increased levels of bilirubin.  These increased levels of bilirubin cause a condition known as jaundice which is a yellowing of the mucous membranes, the skin, and the whites of the eyes.  Bilirubin levels increase when hemoglobin is broken up from dead red blood cells.  When the liver is functioning properly, bilirubin is excreted through bile.

Liver diseases are characterized by a number of symptoms. Some of the more common ones are:

• acne Rosacea
• bad breath
• brownish skin blemishes or spots
• coated tongue
• dark circles beneath the eyes
• excessive blood vessels on the face
• excessive perspiring
• flushed appearance of the face
• itchy skin
• itchy, red, swollen eyes

There are numerous other symptoms depending on the liver disease or disorder of the liver we are talking about and how severe the condition is.  Additionally, there are also pediatric liver diseases and disorders.  Some of more common diseases and disorders are:

• Cancer of the liver
• Cirrhosis
• Hemochromatosis
• Hepatitis A, B, and C
• Liver disease resulting from alcoholism
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Reye’s Syndrome
• Wilson’s Disease

In many cases, due to the symptoms involved with liver diseases and disorders, a person may not be able to hold down a full-time job and earn a living.  The Social Security Administration usually evaluates diseases or disorders of the liver under the Digestive System Impairment listing Section 5.05.  SSDI benefits are oftentimes awarded to those individuals who have been evaluated as having any number of chronic liver diseases and disorders.

Just remember that the burden of proof is on you when applying for benefits.  The diagnosis and evaluation of the disease or disorder must be totally separate from the one you receive by the SSA.  In most cases, hiring a Social Security Disability attorney is the recommended course of action especially once you have become unable to work.