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Asthma is a worldwide concern that currently affects more than 300 million people around the world. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 25 million Americans suffer from asthma and this disease is the leading chronic illness in infants and children. Typical symptoms of asthma include; difficulty in breathing, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.
If your asthma is so severe to the point that it is preventing you from working then you can apply for asthma disability. In order to determine the extent of your asthma disability, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will first-rate your illness using their medical guide which is commonly known as the blue book. This blue book contains hundreds of disabilities that qualify for benefits. The blue book also contains a list of the required test results that are needed for approval.
If you indeed meet a blue book listing because of asthma, then you are considered disabled and you can apply for disability benefits with asthma.
Here’s how to apply for disability benefits with asthma.
1. You Need To Show Proof that you’ve been Diagnosed with Asthma
In order to apply for benefits, you will need to show that you’ve been checked by a doctor and clinically diagnosed with asthma and the condition is preventing you from engaging in gainful economic activities.
You will need to provide medical records which clearly show the severity of your condition and the description of treatment. You will be required to provide the dates and the names of all the tests you have done and the medical practitioner who sent you for them. Don’t forget to provide the name of the clinic or hospital you have attended and all the medicine you were given.
If your asthma attacks are precipitated or they get worse due to certain conditions at the workplace, make sure you report to your doctor and have this information documented in your medical records.
2. Get a Copy of the Adult Disability Checklist
If you are applying for disability benefits online, you will need to get a copy of the adult disability checklist. Be sure to download and print your own copy as it will help you gather all the information you need to prepare for your application.
Generally, the checklist for adult disability application will help you prepare for questions such as your place of birth, marriage and divorce information, your employment details, bank account information, and a list of all your medical conditions. Have all the information required at hand before completing the disability benefits application and be sure to give honest answers.
3. Working with a Social Security Disability Attorney Will Give You Better Chance of Success
Being denied asthma disability benefits is common in America and it can happen due to many factors. This is why you should work closely with a social security disability advocate to ensure success.
Since the disability attorney is well versed in the area, he can advise you on how to present your application to win a claim for disability. He will also show you which medical records are most relevant so that you can prepare for them. Be honest with your lawyer even when you feel embarrassed by the answers so that he can help you make a winning application.