Bronchiectasis – Overview
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The bronchi are respiratory tract airways that carry air to the lungs. Bronchiectasis is an obstructive lung disease state induced by irreversible bronchial dilatation caused by muscle and elastic tissue degeneration in these passages. As a result, the bronchi become irritated and susceptible to collapse, making it more difficult for the body to evacuate lung secretions and potentially obstructing airflow into and out of the lungs.
Bronchiectasis can be caused by a variety of various diseases. Among them are the following:
- Syndrome of Acquired Immune Deficiency (AIDS)
- Tuberculosis
- IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease)
- The Disease of Crohn’s
- Toxic gases such as ammonia and others are inhaled and aspirated.
Alcoholism - Utilization of heroin
- Numerous allergens
- Infections of the respiratory tract
- Fibrosis Cystic
Bronchiectasis symptoms may include frequent, significant production of green/yellow sputum (up to 8 oz./240 ml daily), frequent, recurrent respiratory infections, poor breath, and potentially diarrhea (when associated with cystic fibrosis).
Bronchiectasis is typically detected with a Computed Tomography (CT) scan, as it causes distinctive anomalies in the lung and bronchial tissues. When CT does not offer a conclusive diagnosis, a medical history describing frequent respiratory infections combined with evidence from blood work and sputum culture samples may enough to establish a diagnosis.
Bronchiectasis is treated by preventing airway blockages, treating and preventing bronchial infections with long-term antibiotics, surgically removing damaged lung segments, administering bronchodilators, and using inhaled steroids. Combination therapy may be necessary in some instances.
Applying for Social Security Disability after being diagnosed with Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is one of the conditions included in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book, which is a list of disabilities that may qualify an individual for Social Security Disability benefits. To qualify for these benefits, your physician must first diagnose you with Bronchiectasis using the necessary imaging procedures, typically a CT scan. One of the following requirements must exist:
Impairment of lung functions, as determined by one of two specific lung capacity measurements or one of three specific gas exchange measurements inside the respiratory system, or
Bronchitis, pneumonia, hemoptysis (bloody sputum), or respiratory failure episodes (defined as extended symptomatic episodes lasting one or more days and needing urgent care in a medical facility) that require physician treatment at least once every two months or at least six times a year. Episodes requiring more than 24 hours in the hospital will be classified as two episodes. A history spanning at least 12 consecutive months is required to ascertain the frequency of the episodes.
Fortunately, the majority of these disorders are included in the criteria for diagnosing Bronchiectasis, and hence may already be present. It is critical, however, that they are well documented in order to build an appropriate history to achieve approval of your Social Security Disability benefits.
Your Disability Case for Bronchiectasis
If you are handicapped as a result of Bronchiectasis symptoms, there is a very good chance you deserve to be receiving Social Security Disability benefits. However, submitting the SSA with all of the necessary paperwork can be quite challenging. Because of this, you’re recommended to retain the services of a Social Security Disability attorney.
As you can see, qualifying for disability payments entails much more than simply possessing a qualifying condition. Additionally, you must be able to demonstrate, in very particular ways, that the disease has impacted your life and health to the point where you are unable to work and provide for your own or your family’s needs. Acquiring that proof and submitting it in a manner that results in the granting of your disability benefits can be a time-consuming process that is best left to a professional. A Social Security Disability lawyer, in partnership with your health care team, will be able to secure and present the paperwork necessary to expedite the receipt of your disability payments.
Seventy percent of first petitions for Social Security Disability benefits are refused. Lots of these denails are caused by procedural flaws, such as insufficient paperwork.
Once a case is denied, it is required to appeal, which can result in lengthy and very costly delays. Cases frequently stretch on for months, if not years. A knowledgeable Social Security Disability attorney can assist you in avoiding potential errors that could result in a lengthy delay in collecting benefits. Do yourself a favor and contact a Social Security Disability attorney soon to have your case examined.