Disability Due to Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory disorders that Social Security evaluates in this category are those that cause obstruction (difficulty getting air out of the lungs) or restriction (difficulty moving air into the lungs) or that interfere with diffusion (exchange of gases) through the cell membranes of the lungs. These can cause serious difficulties, especially during physical activities.
Respiratory disorders that cause disability
The main symptoms of these disorders are persistent wheezing, tightness in the chest, chronic cough that can produce mucus, frequent respiratory infections, lack of energy, involuntary weight loss, swelling in the ankles, feet or legs and other disabling symptoms. A person can suffer from more than one related condition at a time. The most common conditions are:
- Severe chronic asthma
- Lung failure
- Emphysema
- Pulmonary bronchiectasis
- Lung transplant
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
This list is not exhaustive. There are other respiratory conditions that Social Security considers may be disabling. Each case is evaluated individually. If you have a medical diagnosis and understand that you cannot work because of a respiratory condition, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
Apply for benefits for respiratory disorders
Remember that you may have any of these conditions or symptoms, but not necessarily qualify for disability benefits. Perhaps you could have another condition not listed here. You need to have a medical record with diagnosis and treatment to show that your condition affects or impedes your ability to perform a job.
It is important that you consult with our Social Security attorneys about the requirements and process for applying for disability benefits for disabling respiratory disorders.
The consultation is free and we do not charge anything until your case is approved with your benefits.
