Asthma & Disability In The State Of Arizona
Published on January 3rd, 2023 by Eric Slepian
More than eight percent of adults in the US have been diagnosed with asthma. While most can successfully manage their condition, others might be unable to work or perform daily tasks.
If that’s the case, then a person who is suffering from severe asthma should file for social security disability benefits.
Asthma Defined
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways leading to the lungs. During an asthma attack, the pathways to the lungs swell and become congested with mucus, which causes shortness of breath or the inability to properly breathe.
There are varying degrees of how mild or severe a condition like asthma can be. For some, it can be managed by making active environmental changes or medicine on hand. Others however might struggle to perform certain physical activities like climbing stairs or grocery shopping.
If you’re able to prove that you’re unable to work or perform the basic activities of daily living due to your asthma, then you might qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Basic Requirements For SSDI & SSI
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes asthma as a disability, and it is listed in the Blue Book under section 3.00 Respiratory Disorders. There are several factors that go into each case evaluation, which can become quite complex.
In order to qualify for benefits, your forced expiratory volume (FEV) must be less than or equal to preset figures based on age, height, and sex. Additionally, attacks must result in hospitalization at least three times within a one-year period, at least 30 days apart. Further, each stay must be for at least a period of 48 hours, including time spent in the emergency room. The annual period evaluated will be the one directly prior to your application submission.
Supporting Evidence
Next, you must provide historical documentation from your doctors, including medical records for visits and listings of your prior FEV readings. You will also need to include all medications and inhalers used previously and currently.
If other conditions like allergies figure into your asthma, those test results and records must be included, as well. It’s not uncommon for people to have had asthma their entire lives, and therefore need to backtrack documentation to previous doctors, which can be tedious.
Work With Our SSI Attorney in Tucson, AZ
If your claim has been denied or you are unsure as to how much evidence is actually needed for your claim, we highly recommend speaking with a qualified Social Security Disability attorney in Tucson, Arizona. They will be able to expertly recommend what you need and who to contact.
If you are in need of an experienced, Tucson social security disability lawyer, please contact Slepian Ellexson, PLLC Disability Law for a free consultation for your disability claim.
