Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a relatively rare condition that affects the lungs. The bronchial tubes become enlarged and distended forming pockets where infection may gather. The walls themselves are damaged which results in impairment to the lung’s complex cleaning system. The cilia - which line the bronchial tubes and sweep them free of dust, germs and excess mucus - are destroyed. When this cleaning system is not working effectively dust, mucus and bacteria accumulate. Infection develops and is difficult to remove. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will look at the severity of the breathing patterns in order to determine disability benefits.
For this condition to be severe enough to meet the Social Security Administration's listing the claimant must have:
- The severity of the breathing impairment satisfies any of the criteria listed under V(a).; OR
- Episodes of bronchitis, pneumonia, hemoptysis, or respiratory failure requiring physician intervention, and occurring at least once every 2 months or at least 6 times a year.