No, The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not specifically list sleep apnea as a disability. However, if your sleep apnea is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may be considered disabled.
To qualify for disability benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have a medically determinable impairment that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months.
- Your impairment must prevent you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- Your impairment must be severe enough that you cannot adjust to other work.
The SSA will consider your individual symptoms, how they affect your ability to work, and your medical history when making a determination.
What is Sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. This can happen when the airway becomes blocked or narrowed, preventing you from getting enough oxygen.
Sleep apnea can cause a number of health problems, including daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and mood swings. It can also increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
What Is Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, often witnessed by a bed partner
- Gasping or choking sensations during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Irritability or mood changes
- Decreased libido
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
If you have sleep apnea, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sleep Apnea and the SSA Blue Book
The SSA Blue Book is a listing of medical impairments that are considered severe enough to qualify for disability benefits. Sleep apnea is not specifically listed in the Blue Book, but there are a number of other impairments that are associated with sleep apnea that can qualify for benefits.
For example, if you have sleep apnea and one of the following conditions, you may be able to get disability benefits:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Obesity
- Narcolepsy
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Anxiety
If you have sleep apnea and another condition that is listed in the Blue Book, you may be able to get disability benefits. However, you will need to show that your sleep apnea is severe enough to prevent you from working.
Contact Disability Law Firm for Sleep Apnea Disability Claims
If you are considering filing a disability claim for sleep apnea, you may want to consider contacting a disability law firm for assistance. Disability law firms are experts in assisting individuals in navigating the intricate application and appeals process for benefits.
A Social security disability lawyer can provide a range of services, including helping you gather the necessary medical documentation to support your claim, assisting with the completion of application forms, and representing you in any appeals or administrative hearings.