Suffering From Respiratory Disorders? You May Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits in NC

Respiratory disorders may include obstructive airway diseases such as emphysema or asthma or chronic infection that causes progressive lung damage. It is understandable how severely damaged lung capacity or function can result in a disability that curtails a person’s ability to work for a living.

If you suffer from such an illness, it may qualify you as disabled and eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The social security disability lawyers of Hardison & Cochran are here to help you. We can assist you in either applying for benefits or appealing the denial of your claim.

We serve clients throughout North Carolina. Our initial case consultations are always free. Get started by calling or contacting us online today.

Common Respiratory Disorders

The Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments, or “Blue Book,” is used by the North Carolina Disability Determination Services (DDS) to determine whether you have a qualifying disability or a disability that is considered severe enough to prevent you from working for a living.

Specific respiratory disorders recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) include:

  • Chronic pulmonary insufficiency – This includes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or chronic restrictive ventilatory disease (restricted lung expansion).
  • Asthma – This is a chronic narrowing of the airways, including bronchitis or recurrent asthma attacks.
  • Cystic fibrosis – This is a genetic disease in which thick mucus blocks the airways, causing infections, lung damage, and breathing difficulties.
  • Pneumoconiosis – This is a disease caused by inhaling dust, often in mines, textile factories or other workplaces.
  • Bronchiectasis – This is a condition in which the lungs’ airways are abnormally stretched and widened because of mucus blockage.
  • Sleep-related breathing disorders – These disorders include sleep apnea, in which breathing stops or becomes shallow during sleep.
  • Lung transplant – This is considered a disability for 12 months following the date of surgery and is evaluated afterward for remaining impairment.

Can You Qualify for SSD Benefits with a Respiratory System Disorder?a man holds an asthma inhaler in his hand

To obtain SSD benefits for respiratory disease and any associated impairments, you must show that your respiratory disorder has been established by medical evidence. This evidence must be provided in sufficient detail to permit an independent reviewer to evaluate the severity of the impairment.

Medical records must detail any treatment you have received for your respiratory ailment and how you have responded to it.

To establish chronic pulmonary disease, for example, the SSA will require records reflecting:

  • A thorough medical history, including treatment for your respiratory disorder
  • A new physical examination
  • Chest x-rays or other appropriate imaging
  • Pulmonary function test results.

Are There Other Ways to Qualify for SSD Benefits with a Respiratory Disorder?

The SSA recognizes that the respiratory disorders in the Blue Book are not a complete list. You have the right to explain to the SSA that you are disabled by a respiratory problem that is not on its list. You will be required to show that your condition has made you unable to perform the duties of your job for 12 months or more or is expected to keep you from working for a year or more or is a terminal condition.

Our North Carolina Lawyers Help Individuals Seek SSD Benefits for Respiratory Disorders

An experienced attorney from Hardison & Cochran can help you make the case to those who will decide the fate of your SSD benefits application. We will make sure your application is complete and reflects the severity of your respiratory impairment.

Contact us without delay to get started on applying for benefits or appealing the denial of your initial application. We will stand by your side and fight for the benefits you deserve.

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