COPD and Disability

Posted in Social Security Disability on July 23, 2014

Tennessee Social Security Disability attorney Ann Tycer is often asked to prove cases of disability involving COPD. This is a respiratory (lung) condition characterized by loss of pulmonary function making it very difficult to breath, which in turn makes working difficult if not impossible. Emphysema is a name frequently given to one type of COPD. Common symptoms are difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, fatigue and sometimes chest pain. A chest x-ray or other imaging studies are required for proper diagnosis. Pulmonary function studies may be ordered to determine the severity of COPD.

COPD is most frequently seen in people who smoke or have been regularly exposed to air pollutants, but the condition may also appear in non-smokers. Those with COPD frequently suffer from lengthy “common colds.”

COPD is a common and significant cause of disability. Millions of people worldwide are diagnosed with COPD. It ranks as the third leading cause of death in the United States.

Currently doctors have no cure or anyway to reverse the damage to the lungs. Exercise is important and stopping smoking is essential for better health and to show disability judges a good faith effort to follow your doctor’s orders.

If you have COPD and need help with a Social Security Disability appeal, call attorney Ann Tycer today at 615-256-8880 for a free informative consultation.