If you are applying for Social Security disability insurance or SSI disability benefits based on a breathing disorder, you need to do more than state symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, and coughing. You'll have to provide Social Security with medical evidence from your doctor showing that you have had poor pulmonary function test results or frequent hospitalizations for acute breathing problems. For some lung problems, Social Security will want to see 12 months of doctor's notes and hospital records. The articles below cover the most common types of respiratory problems that cause disability.
Getting Disability Benefits for COPD, Asthma, or Other Respiratory Disorders
Many Social Security disability applicants suffer from breathing problems that prevent them from meeting the demands of full-time employment.
Is Asthma a Disability? Facts Social Security Considers
If you have frequent asthma attacks that require medical attention, you should be able to get disability benefits.
Disability Benefits for Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a type of obstructive lung disease that destroys the body’s large airways. It is caused by chronic inflammation or infection of the airways.
Social Security Disability Benefits for Emphysema
Emphysema that causes poor lung function often qualifies for disability benefits.
Social Security Disability Benefits for Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a fairly common condition where a person stops breathing briefly while sleeping.
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability
Written by a former SSA medical consultant, Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability discusses what you need to do to get disability for over a dozen different types of breathing disorders.
Nolo's book covers Medicare and Medicaid rules for persons with disabilities.
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