SSDI Claims for Asthma and COPD

Attorney Helping People With Respiratory Disorders Obtain Social Security Disability in Dallas County

Certain types of chronic health conditions can have a major impact on a person's ability to work. Respiratory issues can be especially difficult, since the inability to breathe properly and receive enough oxygen can be distressing and life-threatening. Disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) can affect those who perform physical labor, but they can also limit people's ability to complete tasks in many other types of jobs as well. Fortunately, those who are unable to maintain substantial gainful employment due to respiratory problems may be able to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.

If you have been diagnosed with a respiratory disorder that has affected your ability to work, the Law Offices of Coats & Todd can help you apply for Social Security disability benefits. We have more than 60 years of combined experience, and we can advise you of your rights, help you file an application for disability benefits, or appeal the denial of a disability claim. With our history of successfully obtaining benefits for our clients, we will make sure you take the right steps to receive the financial assistance you need.

Disability Benefits for Asthma and COPD

Asthma is a chronic condition involving inflammation that constricts the airways and leaves a person short of breath as they struggle to receive enough oxygen. A person with asthma may experience a hyper-reactive response in which airways become tightened in response to outside factors such as irritants in the atmosphere. An inflammatory response may occur due to the reaction of a person's immune system, and this may cause the airways to swell and fill with fluid.

Asthma is a condition that is included in Social Security's listing of impairments. This listing states that a person is considered to be disabled if they have experienced complications related to asthma that have required three hospitalizations within a 12-month period. Hospitalizations must have lasted at least 48 hours, and they must have been at least 30 days apart. In addition, a lung function test must show that the person's forced expiratory volume (FEV) is below certain limits based on their height, age, and gender.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may include multiple types of lung diseases that cause blockages in airflow, making it difficult for a person to breathe and process oxygen. These diseases include emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is included in Social Security's listing of impairments, and a person will be considered disabled if testing shows that they have very low levels of airflow in their lungs.

If you do not meet the stringent requirements included in the listing of impairments, you may still be able to qualify for disability benefits. To do so, you will need to demonstrate that a lung disorder has made it impossible for you to perform work that you have done in the past as well as any other work in the national economy. By showing that asthma or COPD has made it impossible for you to earn a level of income that is considered substantial gainful activity, you can demonstrate that you are disabled and in need of financial assistance.

Contact Our North Texas Social Security Disability Lawyers

At the Law Offices of Coats & Todd, we can provide you with invaluable assistance in your Social Security disability case. We will help you understand the types of medical evidence that you will need to show that you are disabled, and we will help you address any issues that may affect your ability to receive disability benefits. Contact us and arrange a case evaluation by calling 972-671-9922. We assist with Social Security disability cases in Dallas, Plano, Dallas County, McKinney, Frisco, Allen, Denton, Denton County, Collin County, Lewisville, and Flower Mound.