Noteboom The Law Firm

Peripheral Artery Disease Risk Significantly Increased for Women Smokers

When a severe medical condition leads to disability, such as peripheral artery disease, then you may be unable to work for a period of time. You may qualify to receive long-term disability benefits that can help to offset your lost income.

In a report from CNN Health, recent findings were published concerning the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) being significantly increased for women who smoke. When women stopped smoking, that risk was drastically reduced.

PAD is a condition where fatty deposits collect on the inside of artery walls, which blocks the flow of blood. This occurs in the pelvis or legs and if not treated, could lead to blockages in vital organs such as the heart and brain. Additionally, those who have PAD are at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Symptoms of PAD include: 

• fatigue;
• pain;
• heavy feeling in legs while active; and
• elevated high blood pressure (that may be difficult to treat).

The study found that women who smoked at least 15 cigarettes a day had an increased risk of PAD 10 times higher, in comparison to non-smokers.

If you have questions concerning your eligibility for long-term disability benefits, then you should seek legal help. A Miami Gardens long-term disability attorney can evaluate your case and determine if you qualify.

Long-term disability benefits may be available to those who have purchased a disability plan from a private insurer or have coverage through an employer. Unfortunately, the insurers don't make it easy for the disabled to get access to the benefits they deserve. When a severe medical condition makes it impossible for you to work and you've been denied your long-term disability benefits, an attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. can help you cut through the red tape and fight for your benefits, no matter where you live in the U.S! Contact a South Florida disability attorney today - 1-888-234-5758.