Asthma and SSD Benefits

Asthma is a condition characterized by impairment of the respiratory system. Individuals with asthma experience episodes of stressed breathing, with airway constriction that endangers the delivery of oxygen to the body. If you have asthma and you are applying for Social Security Disability (SSD), an experienced SSD lawyer can maximize your chances of receiving benefits.

Disabling Effects of Asthma

The effects of asthma will vary based on the individual’s degree of severity. Certain activities may exacerbate the condition and cause asthma attacks, like exercising, working outside or in cold weather, low air quality, and stress. Frequent episodes of dysfunctional breathing can prevent oxygen from reaching the brain and cause additional health problems or become fatal. Asthma victims may experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Chest pressure/tightness in the chest
  • Coughing
  • Allergies or cold-like symptoms
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Anxiety/panic attacks
  • Tightness in the neck and chest muscles
  • Rapid breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Trouble concentrating

Asthma victims often require regular medical care and prescription medication to control the severity and frequency of attacks. Hospitalization is often necessary after asthma attacks occur.

Hiring an Attorney to Prove Asthma Disability

Your SSD attorney will work to provide evidence of your asthma’s disabling effects. Proper documentation of the permanent asthma condition is essential to winning the SSD benefits you deserve. Providing extensive medical history, chest X-rays, and other diagnostic tools can strengthen your case for benefits. Specialized breathing tests like the forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) help prove just how severe asthma is. An experienced SSD lawyer can make sure you have undergone definitive testing to show the Social Security Administration how debilitating your condition has become.

Talk to a seasoned disability lawyer about your asthma and your right to benefits. To find a legal counselor in your area, please search our disability attorney database.