As with any other type of physical impairment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits on the basis of a respiratory ailment if you have enough work history and are unable to maintain a full-time job for a year or longer. Your respiratory impairment may have developed slowly over time or it may have come up rather quickly, as when someone becomes ill with pneumonia and then has trouble returning to health afterward.
Other conditions besides asthma and pneumoconiosis that fall under the category of a respiratory disorder include:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
- Sleep apnea
- Cystic fibrosis
- Recurring episodes of bronchitis or pneumonia
- Lung cancer
- Lung transplant
A respiratory impairment such as pneumoconiosis or asthma may be manageable for some workers with appropriate medical care and symptom management. In other cases, a breathing disorder may become a disability that prevents someone from working full-time. Occupational diseases are sometimes a factor that tip the scale and make full-time work no longer feasible, in part because of frequent absences from work for doctors’ appointments and recuperation from illness caused by the underlying condition.
To be eligible for SSD benefits, you must prove that your respiratory impairment or any physical or mental impairment prevents you from working full-time for a year or longer. Documenting your case well for your initial application can put you in a strong position in case your application is denied and you need to appeal. This is a strong emphasis of the SSD practice of the Disability Advantage Group, in Knoxville.
One Call Does It All At The The Disability Advantage Group, For SSD Applicants With Respiratory Impairments
Our lawyers have years of experience and well-honed skills applicable to SSD cases involving asthma, COPD or sleep apnea. We are prepared to position you for a favorable outcome if your impairment meets the criteria for a disability and you have sufficient work history.
Contact an attorney at the Disability Advantage Group, by email or by calling 865-566-0800.