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Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can significantly impact daily life, especially for military veterans exposed to various environmental hazards during their service. This blog post provides an in-depth look at how asthma is rated for VA disability benefits, the criteria for establishing service connection, and the importance of understanding secondary conditions. This information is crucial for veterans seeking the compensation they deserve for their health challenges.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. For some veterans, asthma symptoms are triggered by physical activity, environmental factors, or stress, while others may experience chronic symptoms regardless of these triggers.
VA Disability Asthma Symptoms in Veterans
Veterans may experience various asthma symptoms, which can affect their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Wheezing and coughing
- Pain or tightness in the chest
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
These symptoms can vary in severity and frequency, and they may worsen over time if not properly managed.
Causes and Triggers of Asthma in Veterans
Asthma can be caused or exacerbated by multiple factors, including:
- Environmental hazards such as burn pits and airborne toxins
- Weather changes
- Stress
- Chemicals and gases
- Allergens
- Respiratory infections
- Medications
- Physical activity
- Gastrointestinal conditions
- Food and drink preservatives
Exposure to these factors during military service, especially in overseas deployments, can increase the risk of developing asthma. For example, veterans who served in dry desert environments or near military burn pits are more likely to experience respiratory issues due to the high levels of particulate matter in the air.
Prevalence of Asthma in Veterans
According to the CDC, approximately 25 million Americans have asthma. Studies have shown that veterans who were deployed are 24-30% more likely to develop asthma and asthma symptoms compared to their non-deployed peers. This increased risk is largely due to exposure to environmental hazards during military service.
VA Disability Ratings for Asthma
The VA rates asthma based on the severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms, as well as the impact on the veteran’s daily life. Asthma is rated under CFR 38 Part 4, VA Schedule of Ratings, Diagnostic Code 6602. The ratings can be 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, determined by metrics such as forced expiratory volume (FEV-1) and forced vital capacity (FVC).
Rating Criteria
- 10% Rating: FEV-1 of 71-80% predicted, or an FEV-1/FVC ratio of 71-80%, or the need for intermittent inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy.
- 30% Rating: FEV-1 of 56-70% predicted, or an FEV-1/FVC ratio of 56-70%, or the need for daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy, or inhalational anti-inflammatory medication.
- 60% Rating: FEV-1 of 40-55% predicted, or an FEV-1/FVC ratio of 40-55%, or monthly physician visits for required care of symptom exacerbations, or intermittent (at least three per year) courses of systemic corticosteroids.
- 100% Rating: FEV-1 of less than 40% predicted, or an FEV-1/FVC ratio less than 40%, or more than one asthma attack per week with episodes of respiratory failure, or daily use of systemic high-dose corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications.
Proving Service Connection for Asthma
To receive VA disability benefits for asthma, veterans must establish a service connection. This involves providing:
- A current medical diagnosis of asthma
- Evidence of a service-related cause or trigger
- An opinion linking the asthma diagnosis to military service
Medical records, service records, and statements from family and friends can help support the claim. Additionally, the VA will schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) examination to assess the severity of the condition and determine the appropriate disability rating.
VA Secondary Conditions to Asthma
Secondary conditions are health issues that arise as a result of a service-connected condition like asthma. These can be claimed separately for their own ratings, potentially increasing the overall compensation. Common secondary conditions to asthma include:
- Allergies
- Anxiety
- Asthma-COPD overlap syndrome
- Bronchiectasis
- Depression
- GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- Nasal polyps
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Type 2 diabetes
- Vocal cord dysfunction
Importance of Proper Documentation and Filing
Accurate and thorough documentation is crucial when filing for VA disability benefits. Veterans should ensure they provide all necessary medical records, service records, and statements that support their claim. Incomplete documentation can lead to delays or denials in receiving benefits.
Asthma can significantly impact the lives of veterans, especially those exposed to environmental hazards during their service. Understanding how the VA rates asthma and the criteria for establishing a service connection is essential for securing the deserved benefits. Proper management of asthma and related conditions, along with thorough documentation, can help veterans receive the compensation they need to maintain their health and quality of life.
About HeyAllergy
HeyAllergy is dedicated to providing top-notch telemedicine services for allergy and asthma care. Our team of board-certified allergists and immunologists offers personalized treatment plans, including customized sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). We prioritize prompt and attentive care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible support for their respiratory health. If you are experiencing persistent asthma symptoms post-COVID or due to military service, book an appointment with HeyAllergy today for expert guidance and treatment.
