Respiratory System

Social Security Disability Attorney Randy Zeldin, Esq. of Boca Raton is available to represent individuals seeking Social Security Disability due to diseases and processes of the respiratory system. In general, respiratory impairments are the result of chronic disorders which produce permanent loss of pulmonary (lung) function because of gas exchange or ventilatory abnormalities. The most common symptoms attributable to these disorders are dyspnea on exertion, cough, wheezing, sputum production, hemoptysis and chest pain. Respiratory impairment usually can be evaluated under these listings on the basis of a complete medical history and physical examination with appropriate testing.

Following are the major categories of impairment of the respiratory system:

1. Chronic Pulmonary Insufficiency: These are the category of diseases which impact an individual's ability to breath. More technically, the insufficiency interferes with the ability of air to contact the hemoglobin found in red blood cells. The most common lung disease in this category is named chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Within this category, are found diseases of asthma, bronchitis and emphysema.

2. Cystic Fibrosis: This is a genetic disorder which impacts roughly 5% of the general population. Cystic fibrosis is a very serious disorder, which impairs the functioning of the exocrine gland. It is generally thought to be a genetic disorder. The major effects of the disease are on the lungs and the digestive system.

3. Pneumoconiosis: Lung diseases caused by inhalation of particles such as asbestos, beryllium and coal are in this category.

4. Myobacterial and Persistent Lung Infections: Generally, these are strains of tuberculosis, but are any number of bacteria that are a part of the genus called Mycobacteria. Progression of this disease is often slow, but is unfortunately more rapid in combination with active HIV.

5. Sleep/Breathing Disorders: If an individual has a sleeping disorder and breathing is interrupted for periods of time, this is known as "sleep apnea." This can be a dangerous condition with many long term health consequences. Typically, this condition is characterized by periods during which breathing ceases for at least 10 seconds or longer during sleep. Full sleep studies are usually performed, including electrocardiography; electroencephalography; pulse oximetry to measure the oxygen saturation of blood; measurement of respiration, time to fall asleep and arousals.

6. Asthma: Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the large and small airways (bronchi). Although onset typically begins in childhood, it can manifest in adulthood too. The number and duration of attacks can be a factor in assessing disability. Testing usually includes arterial blood gas study; bronchoscopy; carbon monoxide diffusing and chest X-Ray.

7. Bronchiectasis: This condition refers to chronic bronchial bacterial infection, whereby the bronchus is so damaged and enlarged (dilated) that infection tends to be ongoing. Although less rare, the condition can persist, even with modern antibiotics.

8. Lung Transplant: These are given to some individuals with terminal lung disease, including pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, chronic infection such as severe bronchiectasis; emphysema and pulmonary hypertentsion.

Individuals with respiratory diseases may qualify for Social Security Disability and should contact Social Security Disability Attorney Randy Zeldin, Esq., serving Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach.