Getting Disability for COPD

Many people have difficulty working due to the effects of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, usually known as COPD.  COPD can be caused by many things, but usually it is related to smoking.  Fortunately, Social Security is only concerned with the effects of COPD and not the cause.

A COPD Listing Qualifies You For Disability

People who meet the listing for COPD will automatically qualify for disability benefits.  Without knowing exactly what is in the medical record it is difficult to determine whether the "Listing" for COPD has been met.  Social Security uses a test called the FEV (forced expiratory volume) and cross references that test with the claimant's height and weight.  This test measures how deeply you can breathe and exhale, but sometimes this test does not tell the whole story.

Level of Disability from COPD

Social Security will also have to look at restrictions in your activities of daily living, your functional limitations, and all of your other medical problems to determine if you are disabled.  COPD can significantly effect your ability to walk, lift, and exert yourself physically.  Also, there might be limitations about working near dust, hot or cold temperatures, smoke, or chemicals.  These limitations taken together with other problems can be the difference between getting approved and getting denied.