Respiratory
Respiratory Conditions
Breathing conditions can leave you unable to sustain effort, tolerate common workplace irritants, or keep a steady pace. Social Security uses objective breathing tests along with your treatment history to understand how far your condition limits you across a full workday.
How Social Security evaluates these claims
Social Security reviews respiratory claims under its listings for the respiratory system, which cover conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis. These listings depend on objective measures like spirometry. If your results do not meet a listing, your overall ability to function is still considered.
Limitations that matter
- Shortness of breath with exertion or exposure to dust, fumes, or temperature changes
- Frequent flare-ups that require rest or medical care
- Reduced stamina across a full workday
- Limited ability to walk distances or climb stairs
Evidence that helps
- Spirometry and other pulmonary function testing
- Records of flare-ups, hospitalizations, and oxygen use
- Treatment notes from pulmonologists
- A medical source statement describing your work-related limits
Every case turns on its own facts and its own medical record. If you are living with a respiratory conditions and it has kept you from working, we can review your situation at no cost. Request a free consultation or learn more about how Social Security decides claims.
Talk with Dan about your claim
Every consultation is free, and there is no obligation. You pay no attorney fee unless your claim is won. Most of what we need can be handled over the phone.