Sleep apnea is an all too frequent sleep disturbance characterized by multiple pauses in breathing during the night. This condition can cause anything from mild to severe issues and, if not treated, can be detrimental to an individual’s quality of life.
While it is possible to obtain disability benefits for sleep apnea, meeting the guidelines to qualify can be stressful. The Charlotte disability lawyers at Collins Price are here to help with your disability claim.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms
People with sleep apnea experience irregular breathing patterns during sleep, which can stop their bodies from getting the oxygen they need and cause health issues if not addressed.
Common signs of the condition include loud snoring, choking, and gasping while asleep. Those who suffer from sleep apnea often experience extreme fatigue during the day and have difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Both kinds of sleep apnea impact an individual’s breathing in the same way, but the types differ in source.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
As the name suggests, this kind of sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway becomes repeatedly blocked during sleep. This is the more common form of the two types, and it includes an array of risk factors.
Central Sleep Apnea
This type of sleep apnea happens when the brain fails to signal the lungs to breathe. This version is less common but does occur, and often coincides with breathing disorders and neurological conditions.
How Sleep Apnea May Qualify You for Disability Benefits
To qualify for disability benefits due to sleep apnea, there are many factors to consider. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will first determine whether or not you have sufficient medical evidence supporting your sleep apnea diagnosis. Part of this substantiation usually includes a sleep study in addition to relevant medical history.
Once that is confirmed, the SSA determines if the claimant has been properly using prescribed treatments to address the condition. This often includes the regular use of a Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) machine and lifestyle changes to improve nighttime sleep. Surgery may also be recommended if other treatments fail.
If treatments have all failed and your sleep apnea is part of a bigger picture that prohibits you from being able to work, your claim may qualify for disability benefits. This distinction is an important part of your case that a Social Security disability attorney can help you with.
Social Security Disability Lawyers – Charlotte, NC
The compassionate attorneys at our law firm are dedicated to each client and willing to go the extra mile whenever possible. We understand the stress involved with filing a disability benefits claim and filing an appeal, so reach out to Collins Price online or call for a free consultation.
