Guide to Emphysema and Filing for Social Security Disability

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with emphysema, you may be wondering if you can file for Social Security disability. While this may seem like a straightforward question, there are a slew of things you need to consider. To help simplify things, we’ve put together a brief discussion on this issue. If you want to learn more about this, read on for a brief guide on emphysema and filing for Social Security disability.

What is Emphysema?

Emphysema is a chronic lung condition that causes difficulty with breathing. It is part of a group of diseases known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Emphysema occurs when the walls of the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs become damaged. This damage causes the air sacs to become larger and fewer in number, leading to a decrease in the amount of oxygen that can be exchanged between the lungs and the bloodstream.

The most common cause of Emphysema is long-term smoking. Other risk factors include exposure to second-hand smoke, air pollution, and occupational dust and chemicals. People who have a family history of COPD may also be at an increased risk.

The most common symptom of Emphysema is shortness of breath, which can worsen over time and make it difficult to perform everyday activities. Other symptoms include chest tightness, wheezing, a chronic cough, and weight loss. In some cases, the condition can progress to the point that it requires supplemental oxygen to help the patient breathe.

Treatment for Emphysema is focused on controlling symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and preventing complications. This may include quitting smoking, taking medications to improve lung function, and participating in pulmonary rehabilitation. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove damaged areas of the lungs and improve breathing.

Is Emphysema Considered a Disability?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers emphysema to be a disabling condition and provides benefits to people who meet their eligibility criteria. To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have a severe impairment that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death. 

When determining if emphysema is considered a disability, the SSA looks at the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your ability to do daily tasks. For example, if you have difficulty breathing, you may not be able to perform physical labor or participate in activities that require physical exertion. The SSA also looks at how well you are able to manage your condition with medications and other treatments. 

Can You File for Social Security Disability if You Are Diagnosed with Emphysema?

To qualify for SSD benefits due to emphysema, the applicant must provide medical evidence of the condition, such as a diagnosis from a doctor. The SSA will also take into account the applicant’s age, education, and work history when assessing SSD eligibility.

The SSA will also assess the applicant’s ability to perform work-related activities. This means that the applicant must demonstrate that they are unable to perform any type of work due to the severity of their emphysema. For example, if the applicant is unable to stand, walk, or lift objects due to the condition, then they may be eligible for SSD benefits.

In addition to medical evidence, the SSA may require additional documentation to prove the severity of the applicant’s emphysema. This may include medical records, hospital stays, test results, or other evidence that demonstrates that the applicant is unable to work due to their condition.

Finally, applicants should be aware that the SSA may require them to undergo a medical examination as part of the SSD application process. This exam will help the SSA determine if the applicant’s condition is severe enough to qualify for SSD benefits.

Conclusion

If you suffer from emphysema and believe you may qualify for SSD benefits, it’s important to speak with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney. An attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation and submit a complete application to the SSA. With the help of an attorney, you can maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.

Avard Law specializes in personal injury, veterans’ benefits, and various other focuses to help clients get the compensation they deserve in South Florida. If you are looking for attorneys for social security disability, work with us today!