Millions of Americans struggle with asthma and similar respiratory disabilities. For some, symptoms are mild and easily managed. But for others, asthma becomes a disabling condition that threatens both health and financial stability. If severe asthma has made it impossible to maintain employment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, the application process can be challenging, particularly when you’re focused on managing your health.
Louisiana disability lawyer Phillip M. Hendry understands the devastating impact of severe asthma and is dedicated to helping clients with the SSDI application process. Here’s what you need to know about medically qualifying for benefits and how a skilled Louisiana disability attorney can help.
Qualifying Under the Blue Book Listing for Asthma
The Social Security Administration maintains a listing of impairments known as the Blue Book. To qualify for asthma under section 3.00 Respiratory Disorders, you must meet both of the following criteria:
- FEV1 Testing. Your forced expiratory volume (FEV1) must be less than or equal to the values specified in Table I-A or I-B of the listing. These values are based on your age, gender, and height without shoes. The testing must occur within 12 months of your application.
- Hospitalization. You must have been hospitalized for asthma exacerbations or complications at least three times within a 12-month period, with each hospitalization lasting at least 48 hours and occurring at least 30 days apart.
Documenting Treatment Compliance
In addition to meeting the Blue Book criteria, you must demonstrate that you follow your prescribed treatment plan. This includes:
- Using your control and rescue medications as directed
- Attending regular follow-up appointments with your pulmonologist
- Participating in pulmonary rehabilitation, if prescribed
- Avoiding known asthma triggers
Detailed records from your physicians are essential to showing you're doing everything possible to manage your condition.
The Role of Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) play a critical role in demonstrating the severity of your asthma. These tests measure:
- FVC (forced vital capacity). The total amount of air you can exhale after taking the deepest breath possible.
- FEV1 (forced expiratory volume). The amount of air you can force from your lungs in one second.
- FEV1/FVC Ratio. Compares your FEV1 to your FVC. A low ratio suggests an obstructive lung disease like asthma.
- PEF (peak expiratory flow). How quickly you can exhale. Lower values indicate more severe airway obstruction.
Your Louisiana disability lawyer will work closely with your treating physicians to ensure your PFTs are properly administered and documented for your claim.
Other Asthma-Related Impairments
Even if your asthma doesn't meet the Blue Book listing, you may still qualify for SSDI benefits if your symptoms are severe enough to prevent you from working. The SSA will conduct a residual functional capacity assessment to evaluate how your asthma affects your ability to perform work-related activities.
Your asthma may also cause related impairments that impact your eligibility, such as:
- Sleep disorders. Nocturnal asthma attacks can significantly disrupt sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and decreased concentration.
- Mental health conditions. The stress and limitations of severe asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression.
- Respiratory infections. Asthma can increase susceptibility to other respiratory disorders, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
- Cardiovascular problems. Poorly controlled asthma can strain the heart and increase the risk of arrhythmias and heart failure.
You must document all asthma-related impairments to demonstrate the full extent of your limitations.
How a Louisiana Disability Lawyer Can Help
The SSDI application process can feel like a full-time job, especially when you're already struggling to manage your health. An experienced Louisiana disability attorney can handle the legal aspects of your claim, giving you more energy to focus on your treatment and well-being. A skilled lawyer will:
- Ensure you meet all technical eligibility requirements for SSDI
- Develop a thorough and compelling application
- Coordinate with your medical providers to obtain detailed records
- File any necessary appeals if your initial application is denied
- Represent you in hearings before an administrative law judge
- Explore other potential financial resources, like long-term disability insurance
At the Law Office of Phillip M. Hendry, we understand the profound impact a disabling respiratory condition can have on your life. You've worked hard and paid into the Social Security system. When you need support, you deserve an experienced legal advocate who will fight for the benefits you've earned.