For veterans suffering from migraines or headaches related to their military service, this can be a very frustrating medical issue to experience. However, there may be a light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to possible compensation for this condition. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability benefits to veterans whose conditions are related to their service. This includes migraines, which can qualify you for disability compensation if specific criteria are met.
Let's take a closer look at what that means and how it might benefit you.
What is a Migraine?
Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by severe headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and blurred vision. These headaches typically last several hours and can occur multiple times per week. They can be so severe that they interfere with daily activities and make it difficult for those who suffer from them to work or even go about their daily lives.
Even if your headaches are not classified as migraines, the VA will still rate the headaches in a similar manner based on your documented headaches in terms of frequency and severity.
How Can I Qualify?
To qualify for VA disability benefits related to migraines, you must provide medical evidence showing that your migraines are related to your military service in some way—this could be because of many different in-service stressors, including traumatic events, noise exposure, and head injuries, for example.
If you can show that your migraines or headaches are secondarily caused by a currently service-connected condition, that is another way to obtain a rating for migraines or headaches. For example, many Veterans with Tinnitus report having headaches secondary to Tinnitus. It is important to explore all possible theories of service connection when filing and appealing your claims.
In addition, you must provide evidence that shows how your migraines impact your life—for example, proof that they cause you to have days in the month where the migraines make it difficult for you to work or do everyday tasks like shopping or cooking meals. If approved and awarded a disability rating, you will be eligible for VA disability benefits related to migraines as long as you meet all other requirements set forth by the VA.
Migraines are rated between 0 - 50%, and the ratings are based on the severity and frequency of the headaches. Therefore it is very important to document how often you have headaches and what types of relief you seek for them – such as medication management and lying down in a dark room for extended periods.
Lawyers Serving Georgia's Disabled
Veterans suffering from migraines face severe challenges as they battle this chronic condition. It's important to remember that every case is different, and even if yours doesn't qualify under this criterion, other options may still be available through the VA. An experienced VA disability attorney can help you seek the financial stability and care you deserve.
You served our country; let us serve you. Call our offices at (404) 990-3945 to schedule a consultation with a member of our team and learn more about how you can seek VA Disability benefits for your service-related migraines.