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Cancer Patients May Suffer Cognitive Problems Because of Pain Meds

The Social Security Administration provides Social Security disability benefits to individuals whose severe medical condition(s) make it impossible to maintain employment. When a medical condition limits your functional abilities and you are no longer able to work, you may be eligible.

The Doctor's Lounge reports that according to a new study, opioid painkillers used for cancer patients are linked to cognitive problems.

Opioids are designed to help alleviate pain for cancer patients. Unfortunately, it has been found that when more than 400 milligrams are taken on a daily basis, the chance of suffering cognitive problems is as much as 75% for patients.

Cognitive problems include memory difficulties, confusion, inattention and disorientation, all of which can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.

The study also found that nearly 50% of patients with lung cancer had a risk of suffering cognitive problems in relation to their use of opioids. Researchers in this study contend that it's also related to the symptoms experienced with this type of cancer.

Some medical experts are not so sure that opioids can be blamed for any cognitive difficulties. With the range being wide, between 10 and 90% of cancer patients experiencing cognitive problems, it is difficult to know if it's related to painkillers or the disease itself.

One thing the experts can agree upon is that mental deterioration of any kind has profound effects on the individual and their families. This can bring a greater challenge to decisions that must be made concerning ongoing treatment and other important issues.

When cancer leads to additional difficulties such as cognitive challenges, a Social Security disability attorney can help you to determine if you qualify for benefits.

Filing for Social Security disability benefits is complicated and time-consuming, but at LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A., our team of disability attorneys is ready for the challenge. We like to empower our clients by providing a FREE Social Security disability guide so you can learn more about the process of filing for disability benefits. When you're ready to get started, contact The Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. to begin your claim. Our state-of-the-art, customized intake and database system means less hassle, so you can focus on what's most important to you instead of having to spend your days wading through confusing legalese and legal red tape. Call today - 1-888-234-5758.