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Can I get Social Security disability for a TIA(transient ischemic attack)?

A transient ischemic attack(TIA) is sometimes called a mini stroke or a warning stroke. It is due to a clot in one of the blood vessels suppying blood to the brain. The difference between a TIA and a stroke is that in the case of a TIA the blockage is temporary and usually  lasts a short time, possibly less than a few minutes and when it is over there is no permanent brain injury.  Roughly,  one third of those with a TIA will exeperience a complete stroke within a year.  It is very important that individuals with symptoms of a TIA receive treatment as fast of possible to prevent a full stroke from occurring.  One should immediately call 911. 

Various symptoms which may occur are sudden confusion, difficulty seeing, speaking or walking,  dizziness,  weakness of an extremity,  drooping one side  of the face and a severe headache. 

If you are alleging disability due to a TIA or series of TIA attacks , your medical records must be submitted to the state disability office  which will then be reviewed. They will make a decision whether you should be allowed or denied benefits.  

In order to be granted benefits, you must show some type of residual neurological difficulty. This may include problems standing and walking,  using your hands, difficulty speaking  and understanding conversations.  However, if you show none of these diffculties, then you will be denied benefits.  The fact that you suffered a transent ischemic attack does not automatically guarantee benefits.