Unless your claim is approved initially or at the reconsideration level, getting your Social Security claim through the system may take longer than you are prepared to wait.
Here are a couple of thoughts for people with chronic health problems who sooner or later will be unable to continue working.
First, work as long as possible. If you can make it to 50 years old your claim will be easier to get approved, and you may have a larger monthly benefit.
Second, talk to your employer about reducing your work load to a point where you are earning under the substantial gainful employment (SGA) level. If you are earning less than SGA you may be able to proceed with your claim and still work part time while you wait for your hearing.