COPD and SSDI Benefits
Many different types of respiratory diseases can be disabling, making it difficult or impossible for patients to work. One of those types of respiratory conditions is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, better known by its acronym COPD. This type of lung condition can vary in terms of severity, and it can impact patients in different ways. For some adults with COPD, it may be possible to obtain Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits due to the disabling effects of this disease. It will depend on the severity of the disease and how it has progressed. Our national SSDI benefits lawyers can tell you more about this disease and how a patient with COPD may be eligible for SSDI payments.
What is COPD?
What is COPD? According to the Mayo Clinic, it is “an ongoing lung condition caused by damage to the lungs,” which “results in swelling and irritation” inside a person’s airways “that limit airflow into and out of the lungs.” A person with COPD may have difficulty breathing, wheezing, and a productive cough. The disease often results from exposure to irritants, including “smoke, fumes, dust, or chemicals,” the Mayo Clinic explains. It is commonly associated with cigarette smoking. Often, people with COPD will experience an exacerbation of the disease’s symptoms at certain points, which can be periods of days, weeks, or longer.
COPD is a treatable condition, but it can get worse over time. It can also increase a person’s risk of other debilitating diseases, including lung cancer and types of heart disease.
Eligibility for SSDI Benefits with COPD
In order to be eligible for SSDI payments, you must meet two separate eligibility requirements. First, you must have a medical condition that is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death, and that medical condition must be severe enough that it prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Second, you must have enough credits from working enough hours, and recently enough, to qualify.
Many people with COPD do qualify for SSDI benefits, and this disease is typically classified in Section 3.00 of the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book as a respiratory disorder. The issue will ultimately be based on the applicant’s particular circumstances concerning COPD, including the severity of the condition and the degree to which it prevents engagement in SGA. A lawyer can help you to determine your eligibility by discussing your COPD with you and reviewing information contained in your medical records.
Contact a National Disability Benefits Attorney Today for Help
For many people, COPD is a disabling disease. If you have COPD and the condition is severe enough that you cannot engage in substantial gainful activity, you should find out more about applying for SSDI benefits. One of the experienced national SSDI benefits attorneys at the Law Offices of Stephen Barszcz can speak with you today about your medical condition and your eligibility for SSDI benefits. We are here to assist you with your application and to help you seek the disability benefits you need. Contact us today for more information.
Sources:
ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/3.00-Respiratory-Adult.htm
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/syc-20353679
