As one of the most common chronic diseases facing Americans, asthma can be awful for those who suffer from it. With this in mind, we would like to remind everyone that May is Asthma Awareness Month, as recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
According to the CDC, 22.5 million Americans suffer from asthma. The disease affects the lungs and can cause episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing. The disease has no known cause, and is linked to chronic attacks or episodes.
“Although asthma cannot be cured, it is possible to manage asthma successfully to reduce and prevent asthma attacks, also called episodes,” the CDC reported. “Successful asthma management includes knowing the warning signs of an attack, avoiding things that may trigger an attack and following the advice of your healthcare provider.”
The CDC reported that it is important for people with asthma to take medications as prescribed, as well as avoid environmental triggers that can cause attacks, like smoking, household pets, dust mites, and pollen.
Will I Qualify For Disability Benefits If I Have Asthma?
If you suffer from a severe form of asthma, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. In order to qualify, you would have to show that you have severe asthma attacks, some of which may require doctor visits and/or hospitalization.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) may also require that you take prolonged inhalation treatments and antibiotics to treat your illness in order to qualify for benefits. Additionally, it may request pulmonary function tests like spirometry tests or arterial blood gas studies.
It should be noted that in 2011, 4.1 percent of people who received SSDI benefits had respiratory diseases. If you suffer and cannot work because asthma is controlling your life, you can reach us by phone at (918) 265-1404.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security disability lawyers
Troutman Touts: In America, asthma is more prevalent among females than males.
