If you’ve noticed your asthma is worse at work, or you feel fine at home but start coughing, wheezing, or struggling to breathe when you’re on the clock, you’re not alone. Many people experience their asthma worsening on the job, and it can seriously impact their health and ability to work.
Let’s look at why your asthma may be worse at work, how to manage it, and what your options are if it becomes too much to handle.
What Is Occupational or Work-Related Asthma?
When your asthma is directly related to something in your work environment, it’s known as occupational asthma or work-related asthma. This condition can develop over time from repeated exposure to irritants or allergens on the job. In some cases, people with no previous history of asthma may develop symptoms due to their work environment.
Take occupational asthma seriously. If left untreated, symptoms can become more severe and, in some cases, cause long-term damage to your lungs.
Managing Your Asthma at Work
If your asthma symptoms are worse at work, there are several things you can do to reduce the impact. Start by keeping a log of when and where your symptoms occur. This can help you and your doctor pinpoint specific workplace triggers, whether it’s dust in the break room or fumes in the warehouse.
Your doctor may recommend changing your medication, using an inhaler, or taking other steps to better control your condition. It’s also important to speak with your employer about ways to reduce your exposure to asthma triggers. This might include improving air circulation, relocating your workspace, or wearing protective equipment like a mask or respirator when needed.
If your job keeps making your asthma worse, you might need to ask for different duties or take some time off to recover and avoid triggers. In some cases, you may have to leave the job altogether if it’s putting your health in danger. Choosing to step away from work isn’t easy, but for some, it’s necessary to prevent further harm and to focus on recovery.
Can You Get Disability Benefits for Asthma?
Yes, you can get disability benefits for asthma if your symptoms keep you from working full time. But having a diagnosis isn’t enough on its own. The Social Security Administration (SSA) also evaluates your condition’s severity and how it affects your ability to work.
The SSA uses a set of medical guidelines known as the Blue Book. Asthma is listed under section 3.03. To meet the criteria, you’ll need to show that you’ve had serious asthma attacks requiring medical attention at least three times in 12 months, despite following prescribed treatment. In some cases, your eligibility may also depend on lung function tests.
These medical details can be overwhelming, but they’re important. That’s why working with someone who understands how the SSA evaluates asthma impairments can make a big difference when you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits.
How Our Disability Lawyers Can Help
At The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd., we understand how debilitating asthma is, especially when it’s made worse by your job. With over 100 years of combined experience in Social Security Disability law, we’re here to guide you through every step of the application or appeal process. We offer free case evaluations, and you never pay upfront or by the hour. Our only fee comes if you secure benefits. Call us at (847) 299-0008 to get started.
