Long Term Disability Claims for COPD in Chicago

Disability insurance companies don’t typically make it simple for policyholders who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to get the disability benefits they are entitled to receive. They are well-known for fighting and denying claims. 

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), COPD affects 16 million Americans. Millions of others remain undiagnosed. COPD is a progressive, often debilitating condition that affects breathing and oxygen exchange. It’s one of the top causes of death in this country. Suppose you or a loved one has been diagnosed with COPD. In that case, a Chicago long-term disability claim lawyer may be able to get you the compensation you need.

What is COPD?

COPD is short for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. It encompasses several different types of lung or airway disorders or conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema occurs due to the destruction of alveoli in the lungs. Cigarette smoke, particulate matter, and irritating gasses can destroy the alveoli. Chronic bronchitis occurs when the lining of the bronchial tubes is constantly inflamed. These tubes carry air to and from the air sacs or alveoli in the lungs. 

COPD obstructs airflow from the lungs with chronic inflammation. Symptoms of COPD often include:

• Breathing difficulties
• Shortness of breath, especially with physical exertion
• Trouble taking a deep breath
• Cough
• Mucus (sputum) production 
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Lack of energy
• Swelling of the legs, ankles, and feet
• Frequent respiratory illnesses
• Blueness of your lips or fingernails

COPD and Long-Term Disability

The symptoms of COPD can worsen suddenly. Without warning, those with this condition may find it hard to breathe, begin coughing or wheezing, or produce more phlegm. COPD can cause anxiety, cause sleeping difficulties, and problems with completing day-to-day activities. Certain activities or factors can cause these flare-ups to occur, such as:

• Smoke or other environmental air pollutants
• Weather changes
• Too much activity
• Being run-down
• Feeling stressed or anxious

Since flare-ups can happen at any time, be caused by a number of factors, and create worsening symptoms, it can make it quite difficult for someone diagnosed with COPD to work. Even sedentary desk jobs can become difficult. It’s also recommended that individuals with COPD avoid others who are sick, as even a cold can cause a severe flare-up. Staying away from sick or contagious people can often prove impossible in the workplace.

Do You Have Questions about Long Term Disability Claims for COPD in Chicago?

Don’t simply accept a denial of your COPD long-term disability claim, as far too many employees do. In fact, it’s best to hire an experienced Chicago Long term disability claim attorney from Bartolic Law before you even file your claim. 

It is difficult to get long-term disability claims for COPD in Chicago approved. Insurance companies are notorious for denying them, purporting that there is no objective basis for the condition or the restrictions or limitations assigned to you by your doctor. They also use the excuse that there is no relationship between your diagnosis and your restrictions and the ability to perform any occupation. At Bartolic Law, we know the games insurance companies play and how to defend your right to receive compensation when you can’t work due to COPD.

Contact us today to receive a no-obligation case consultation and learn more about how we can help you pursue your long-term COPD disability claim.