Is COPD a disability?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a term that encompasses a variety of progressive lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. As a respiratory condition, it can significantly impact a person's ability to breathe and perform daily activities. In the context of disability, whether or not COPD is considered a disability depends on the severity of the condition and how it affects an individual's daily life and ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States has specific criteria for determining if a medical condition qualifies as a disability for the purposes of receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). COPD is recognized by the SSA as a listing level disease, which means that if an individual's condition meets or exceeds the criteria outlined by the SSA, it is automatically considered a disability. The criteria typically include the level of severity of the symptoms, the impact on daily functioning, and the degree of limitation in activities that are necessary to perform work-related tasks. So, to answer your question: COPD can be considered a disability if it meets the SSA's criteria for severity and functional limitation. It is important for individuals with COPD to consult with medical professionals and, if necessary, legal experts in disability law to understand their eligibility for SSDI or SSI.

COPD is also called chronic bronchitis or emphysema. The answer to the question is this - if your COPD is severe enough, you can qualify for SSDI or SSI. COPD is a listing level disease, which means the SSA has laid out the criteria for it to be automatically considered a disability.