People with respiratory problems like asthma understand that it can wreak havoc on their ability to work. This can make finding and maintaining employment nearly impossible, especially if pollutants like chemicals, hormones, cigarette smoke or other stimuli bring on your illness.
If you suffer asthma attacks regularly or you go through daily bouts of shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing or chest pain, then you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
In order to qualify for SSDI, applicants must show that they have severe asthma attacks at least six times per year, some of which may require doctor visits and/or hospitalization. In many cases, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will also require that you take prolonged inhalation treatments and antibiotics to treat your illness in order to qualify. The SSA may also request the results of pulmonary function tests like spirometry tests or arterial blood gas studies.
During an initial claim, the SSA may deny your request for benefits if you have severe asthma. If this happens, it is important that you appeal the decision within the 60-day period required. Depending on your age as well as the job you had or the jobs available, you may be able to qualify for benefits. In 2011, 4.1 percent of people who received SSDI benefits had respiratory diseases.
Do not take chances if you are applying for disability benefits or are in the process of appealing a claim. Contact a Tulsa Social Security disability attorney for a free evaluation of your case to discuss your situation. You may also reach us at (918) 265-1404.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security disability attorneys
