Social Security Disability and Sleep Related Breathing Disorders

Sleep-related breathing disorders are evaluated under the category of impairments known as the Respiratory System –– Medical Listing 3.10. Sleep-related breathing disorders (sleep apneas) are caused by periodic cessation of respiration associated with hypoxemia and frequent arousals from sleep. Depending on severity, the disturbed sleep pattern and associated chronic nocturnal hypoxemia causes daytime sleepiness with chronic pulmonary hypertension and/or disturbances in cognitive function. Because daytime sleepiness can affect memory, orientation and personality, a longitudinal treatment record may be needed to evaluate mental functioning. Daytime somnolence may be associated with a disturbance in cognitive function, and is then evaluated under the criteria established for organic mental disorders. There also may be a physiologic basis for the sleep-related breathing impairment attributable to chronic cor pulmonale secondary to chronic pulmonary hypertension, which requires documentation by signs and laboratory findings of right ventricular overload or failure. The medical evidence of record should establish that cor pulmonale is chronic and irreversible.

Under age 50

Age 50 or older

Age 55 or older

Over age 60

Any age

Call your Detroit, Michigan Social Security Disability attorneys today at 1-866-540-0677 to help you file for Social Security Disability benefits if you suffer from a physical or mental illness. If you are in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County or anywhere else in Michigan and need help with your Social Security Disability case, contact our office.