Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition that affects many veterans and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. For veterans, hypertension can be service-connected if it developed during or was aggravated by military service. Veterans with hypertension may qualify for VA disability benefits, but proving the connection between your condition and service requires detailed evidence.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to file a claim for hypertension, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips to strengthen your case for VA disability benefits.
What Is Hypertension, and How Does It Affect Veterans?
Hypertension occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. Over time, this increased pressure can lead to damage in your arteries, heart, and other organs. Veterans with hypertension may experience:
- Headaches or dizziness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain or heart palpitations.
- Fatigue or confusion.
If left untreated, hypertension can increase the risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney failure. Veterans are at a higher risk for hypertension due to stress, exposure to environmental hazards, and physical injuries sustained during service. Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at how the VA assigns disability ratings for hypertension.
VA Disability Ratings for Hypertension
The VA assigns disability ratings for hypertension based on blood pressure readings and the severity of the condition. The higher your blood pressure, the more likely you are to receive a higher disability rating. The VA uses the following rating criteria for hypertension:
- 60% rating: Diastolic pressure is predominantly 130 or higher.
- 40% rating: Diastolic pressure is predominantly 120 or higher.
- 20% rating: Diastolic pressure is predominantly 110 or higher, or systolic pressure is predominantly 200 or higher.
- 10% rating: Diastolic pressure is predominantly 100 or higher, or systolic pressure is predominantly 160 or higher, or you have a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more and require continuous medication for control.
These ratings reflect how severe your hypertension is and how it impacts your ability to function. Once you understand your rating, the next step is filing your claim. Let’s go over the steps to file for hypertension.
Steps to File a VA Disability Claim for Hypertension
Filing a VA disability claim for hypertension involves gathering medical evidence and proving that your condition is connected to your military service. Here’s how to file a strong claim:
- Get a Formal Diagnosis and Document Your Blood Pressure Readings The first step in filing for VA disability benefits is to obtain a formal diagnosis of hypertension from a healthcare provider. Your medical records should document:
- Your blood pressure readings over time, showing the severity of your condition.
- Any treatments you’ve received, such as medication or lifestyle changes to manage your blood pressure.
- The impact of hypertension on your overall health, including any related complications like heart disease or kidney problems.
The more detailed your medical records are, the easier it will be to prove the severity of your hypertension.
- Establish a Service Connection To qualify for VA disability benefits, you must establish that your hypertension is service-connected, meaning it was caused or aggravated by your time in the military. There are several ways to establish a service connection for hypertension:
- Direct service connection: If your hypertension began during your military service, include service medical records that document high blood pressure or hypertension during your time in the military.
- Secondary service connection: If your hypertension is caused or worsened by another service-connected condition, such as diabetes, PTSD, or kidney disease, provide medical evidence linking the two conditions.
- Presumptive service connection: Veterans exposed to Agent Orange or other toxic substances may qualify for presumptive service connection for hypertension. The VA recently added hypertension to the list of conditions presumptively connected to Agent Orange exposure for veterans who served in Vietnam or other areas where Agent Orange was used.
Proving service connection is key to having your claim approved. Once you’ve gathered the necessary documentation, you’re ready to submit your claim.
- Submit Your Claim with Supporting Documentation After gathering your medical records and establishing a service connection, submit your claim through VA.gov, by mail, or at a VA Regional Office. Be sure to include:
- Your formal diagnosis of hypertension and a record of your blood pressure readings.
- Medical records documenting any treatments or medications you’ve received.
- Service records or nexus letters linking your hypertension to your military service or another service-connected condition.
Submitting thorough documentation improves your chances of a favorable decision. After filing, you may be required to attend a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate the severity of your hypertension.
- Prepare for a C&P Exam The VA will likely schedule a C&P exam to assess your hypertension. During the exam, the healthcare provider will take your blood pressure and ask about your symptoms, treatments, and how your hypertension affects your daily life. Be sure to mention any complications caused by your high blood pressure, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or the need for continuous medication.
- Tip: Be honest and thorough when describing how hypertension affects your daily activities and overall health.
Now that we’ve covered the steps for filing a claim, let’s look at common mistakes veterans make when filing for hypertension benefits.
Common Mistakes Veterans Make When Filing for Hypertension
Many veterans encounter challenges when filing VA disability claims for hypertension. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not providing enough blood pressure readings: The VA requires a history of blood pressure readings to evaluate the severity of your hypertension. Be sure to provide multiple readings over time to show how your condition has progressed.
- Failing to establish service connection: If your hypertension is not clearly linked to your military service or another service-connected condition, your claim may be denied. A nexus letter from your healthcare provider can help prove this connection.
- Minimizing symptoms during the C&P exam: Some veterans downplay their symptoms during the C&P exam, which can lead to a lower disability rating. Be specific about how hypertension affects your daily life, including any complications or limitations you experience.
Avoiding these common mistakes will help strengthen your claim. Let’s now go over some practical tips to set your hypertension claim up for success.
Setting Your Hypertension Claim Up for Success: Real Tips and Practical Advice
To improve your chances of receiving VA disability benefits for hypertension, follow these practical tips:
- Track Your Blood Pressure Readings: Keep a log of your blood pressure readings over time. The more readings you have, the better you can demonstrate the severity of your condition. Include readings taken by your healthcare provider, as well as any at-home readings if you monitor your blood pressure regularly.
- Obtain a Strong Nexus Letter: A nexus letter from your doctor can strengthen your claim by explaining how your hypertension is related to your military service or another service-connected condition, such as diabetes or PTSD.
- Be Honest During the C&P Exam: During the C&P exam, describe how hypertension affects your daily life. Be specific about any symptoms you experience, such as dizziness, chest pain, or difficulty performing physical tasks due to high blood pressure.
- Include Evidence of Related Conditions: If your hypertension has caused or worsened other health problems, such as heart disease, kidney issues, or vision problems, include medical records documenting these conditions. These secondary conditions may increase your overall disability rating.
- Submit Comprehensive Medical Records: Ensure that your medical records include detailed blood pressure readings, treatment history, and any medications you’re taking. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your claim will be.
By following these tips, you can build a strong claim and improve your chances of receiving VA disability benefits for hypertension. Now, let’s look at how Disability Law Group can assist you throughout the process.
Why Disability Law Group Is Your Best Resource for Hypertension Claims
Filing a VA disability claim for hypertension can be challenging, especially when it comes to proving service connection and providing the necessary medical evidence. At Disability Law Group, we specialize in helping veterans secure the compensation they deserve for service-connected conditions like hypertension. Our VA-accredited attorneys will guide you through every step, from gathering evidence to preparing for the C&P exam and, if necessary, appealing any decisions.
Let Disability Law Group help you navigate the VA claims process and get the benefits you’ve earned for your hypertension so you can focus on managing your health and well-being.
