10 Easiest Secondary VA Claims to Win

Today, we’ll reveal and explain the Top 10 Easiest Secondary VA Claims to Win!

While there are over 100 most common claims for secondary service connection, this list represents those that are easy to win.

Pro Tip: You’ll want to get a Nexus Letter for any secondary VA claim. Why? Because a required pillar under the law is “Medical Nexus Evidence” to help service connect your disability as a secondary condition.

Okay, let’s begin!

What are the Easiest Secondary VA Claims?

Here’s a list of 10 easy secondary VA claims to get service connected:

#1. Bruxism Secondary to Mental Health Conditions and Tinnitus

Bruxism, the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, can often be linked to underlying mental health conditions and may even be associated with tinnitus. While bruxism itself can have physical causes such as misaligned teeth or sleep disorders, its connection to mental health factors like stress, anxiety, and depression is increasingly recognized.

• Bruxism and Mental Health Conditions: Bruxism is often seen as a subconscious response to stress, anxiety, and emotional tension. Individuals who are dealing with high levels of stress or anxiety may unknowingly clench or grind their teeth, especially during sleep or times of increased tension. The act of bruxism can become a coping mechanism for emotional distress. Addressing the underlying mental health conditions through therapy, relaxation techniques, or other interventions can help reduce the frequency and severity of bruxism.

• Bruxism and Tinnitus: Tinnitus is the perception of sound, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing, in the absence of external sound sources. While tinnitus can have various causes, some studies have suggested a potential link between bruxism and the exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms. The grinding and clenching of teeth associated with bruxism can affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles around it. This can lead to referred pain and tension in the head, neck, and jaw area, potentially worsening tinnitus symptoms in individuals who already experience them.

#2. Cause and Effect Secondary Musculoskeletal Conditions

Secondary musculoskeletal conditions in veterans can lead to various secondary claims within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) system. These claims are filed when a veteran’s primary service-connected condition directly causes or aggravates a secondary condition. Here are some common secondary claims related to musculoskeletal conditions:

• Joint Pain and Arthritis: Primary musculoskeletal conditions such as joint injuries or degenerative disc disease can lead to secondary claims for joint pain, osteoarthritis, or other forms of arthritis. The stress on nearby joints due to compensatory movements or abnormal gait can worsen over time.

• Limited Range of Motion: A primary musculoskeletal condition can result in limited range of motion in a joint or muscle group. For example, if a veteran has service-connected knee injury, it might lead to a limited range of motion in the affected knee, which can qualify for a secondary claim.

• Secondary Radiculopathy or Nerve Impairment: Musculoskeletal conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs or spinal injuries, can lead to nerve impingements or radiculopathy. This can result in pain, numbness, or weakness in other parts of the body along the affected nerve pathways.

• Muscle Atrophy: A primary musculoskeletal condition that affects a limb or muscle group can lead to muscle atrophy or loss of muscle mass in that area. Muscle atrophy can impact mobility and overall function.

• Secondary Headaches: Chronic musculoskeletal conditions affecting the neck and shoulders can contribute to tension headaches or migraines as a secondary condition.

• Secondary Mental Health Conditions: Chronic pain and limitations resulting from primary musculoskeletal conditions can lead to mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or adjustment disorders as secondary claims.

• Sleep Disturbances: Pain and discomfort associated with musculoskeletal conditions can lead to sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, as secondary conditions.

#3. ED Secondary to Mental Health Conditions and Medication Side Effects

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) can indeed be associated with both mental health conditions and medication side effects. Let’s explore these two potential causes and their relationships:

• ED Secondary to Mental Health Conditions: Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic stress can contribute to ED. These conditions affect neurotransmitters, hormones, and blood flow, all of which are essential for healthy sexual function. Stress and anxiety can lead to increased muscle tension, including the muscles involved in maintaining an erection. Depression can impact libido and overall interest in sexual activity. Additionally, mental health conditions may affect self-esteem, body image, and intimacy, all of which can contribute to ED. Here’s a detailed guide for ED Secondary to PTSD.

• ED Secondary to Medication Side Effects: Some medications used to treat mental health conditions, like antidepressants and antipsychotics, can have side effects that impact sexual function, including ED. These medications can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play roles in sexual desire and arousal. The specific mechanism varies among different medications, but side effects may include decreased libido, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, and delayed ejaculation.

• Combined Impact: It’s important to note that mental health conditions and medication side effects can have a combined impact on sexual function. For instance, a person with depression taking antidepressants might experience both the direct impact of the medication and the psychological effects of their mental health condition on sexual desire and arousal.

#4. GERD Secondary to Mental Health Conditions and Medication Side Effects

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can indeed be linked to both mental health conditions and medication side effects. Here’s how these factors can contribute to GERD:

• GERD Secondary to Mental Health Conditions: Mental health conditions such as anxiety and stress can lead to physical symptoms, including an exacerbation of GERD symptoms. Stress and anxiety can trigger changes in the body’s digestive processes, potentially relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle that normally prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This relaxation can contribute to the development or worsening of GERD symptoms.

• GERD Secondary to Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, particularly those used to treat mental health conditions, can have side effects that impact the gastrointestinal system and contribute to GERD. For example, some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and sedatives may affect the function of the LES or alter stomach acid production, increasing the risk of acid reflux and GERD symptoms.

• Combined Impact: Mental health conditions and medication side effects can have a combined impact on GERD symptoms. For instance, a person with anxiety taking medication that affects LES function might experience both the direct impact of the medication and the physiological effects of anxiety on the digestive system.

#5. GERD Secondary to an Orthopedic Condition or Migraines Due to Use of NSAIDS

GERD and migraines can both be influenced by specific factors, such as orthopedic conditions and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Here’s how these connections can manifest:

• GERD Secondary to Orthopedic Condition: Orthopedic conditions involving the spine, particularly conditions that cause poor posture or affect the alignment of the spine, can potentially lead to GERD. This is because the positioning of the spine can impact the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. If the LES is compromised due to spinal misalignment, it can contribute to the development or worsening of GERD symptoms.

• Migraines Secondary to NSAIDs: NSAIDs are commonly used to alleviate pain and inflammation, including migraines. However, their use can lead to a phenomenon known as “medication-overuse headaches” or “rebound headaches.” Frequent or excessive use of NSAIDs, including over-the-counter medications, can lead to the worsening of migraine symptoms and the development of more frequent headaches. This can create a cycle whereby using NSAIDs to relieve headaches perpetuates their occurrence.

Here is a list of some commonly known NSAIDs:

#6. IBS Secondary to Mental Health Conditions and Medication Side Effects

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can indeed be influenced by both mental health conditions and medication side effects. Here’s how these factors can contribute to IBS:

• IBS Secondary to Mental Health Conditions: Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and chronic stress can significantly impact the gastrointestinal system and contribute to the development or exacerbation of IBS symptoms. The gut-brain connection is well-established, and emotional distress can lead to changes in gut motility, sensitivity, and inflammation. Stress, for example, can trigger IBS symptoms due to the intricate communication between the brain and the digestive tract.

• IBS Secondary to Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, particularly those used to treat mental health conditions, can have side effects that affect the gastrointestinal system and contribute to IBS symptoms. For instance, some antidepressants and antipsychotics may lead to constipation or changes in bowel habits, which are common features of IBS.

• Combined Impact: Mental health conditions and medication side effects can have a combined impact on the development or worsening of IBS symptoms. A person with anxiety taking medication that affects gut function might experience both the direct impact of the medication and the physiological effects of anxiety on the digestive system.

#7. Mental Health Conditions Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions or Physical Pain

The relationship between mental health conditions and musculoskeletal conditions or physical pain is well-documented. Musculoskeletal conditions and chronic physical pain can have a significant impact on mental well-being, often leading to the development or exacerbation of mental health issues. Here’s how this connection works:

• Mental Health Conditions Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions or Physical Pain: Musculoskeletal conditions, such as chronic back pain, arthritis, or fibromyalgia, can be sources of persistent physical discomfort. The constant pain and limitations associated with these conditions can take a toll on emotional health. Chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, the reduced ability to engage in normal activities or hobbies due to pain can result in social isolation and a sense of loss, further impacting mental well-being.

• Pain Induced Stress Response Can Trigger Anxiety and Depression: Chronic pain triggers a physiological stress response in the body, involving the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Prolonged stress can contribute to the development of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

• Vicious Cycle of Pain and Mental Health Issues: The relationship between physical pain and mental health can become cyclical. Chronic pain may lead to increased stress and negative emotions, which in turn can heighten the perception of pain. This cycle can be challenging to break without addressing both the physical and emotional aspects.

#8. Migraines Secondary to Mental Health Conditions and Tinnitus

Migraines can indeed be influenced by mental health conditions and tinnitus. The relationship between these factors can be complex and multifaceted. Here’s how these connections can manifest:

• Migraines Secondary to Mental Health Conditions: Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and chronic stress can contribute to the development or exacerbation of migraines. Stress and anxiety can trigger physiological responses in the body, including changes in blood vessels and neurotransmitter levels, which are associated with migraines. Additionally, individuals with mental health conditions may have heightened sensitivity to triggers that lead to migraines, such as certain foods, lights, or sounds.

• Migraines Secondary to Tinnitus: Tinnitus, the perception of sound in the absence of external noise, can be distressing and impact mental well-being. The stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus can act as triggers for migraines in susceptible individuals. The persistent nature of tinnitus and its potential to disrupt sleep and concentration may further contribute to the development of migraines.

• Interplay of Stress and Sensitivity: Stress, whether from mental health conditions or tinnitus-related distress, can lower the body’s threshold for migraine triggers. This means that individuals experiencing stress may be more likely to experience migraines in response to common triggers like certain foods, lack of sleep, or environmental factors.

#9. Sleep Apnea Secondary to Sinusitis, Rhinitis, Deviated Septum, or Asthma

Sleep apnea can indeed be influenced by conditions such as sinusitis, rhinitis, deviated septum, or asthma. These underlying factors can contribute to sleep-disordered breathing and the development or exacerbation of sleep apnea. Here’s how these connections can manifest:

• Sleep Apnea Secondary to Sinusitis and Rhinitis: Sinusitis and rhinitis involve inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages, respectively. When these conditions lead to nasal congestion and blockages, they can obstruct the airflow and make it difficult to breathe properly, especially during sleep. This obstruction can result in snoring and interruptions in breathing, which are characteristic of sleep apnea.

• Sleep Apnea Secondary to Deviated Septum: A deviated septum occurs when the wall separating the nasal passages is off-center, potentially obstructing one side and affecting airflow. This anatomical issue can contribute to nasal congestion and sleep-disordered breathing, increasing the risk of sleep apnea.

• Sleep Apnea Secondary to Asthma: Asthma involves inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can lead to breathing difficulties. During sleep, individuals with asthma may experience worsened airway constriction due to relaxation of the muscles that control airway size. This can contribute to sleep apnea episodes.

• Combined Impact: In some cases, individuals may experience a combination of these factors, such as sinusitis, rhinitis, and asthma. The combined impact of multiple obstructive factors can significantly increase the likelihood of sleep apnea.

#10. Vertigo Secondary to Mental Health Conditions and Tinnitus

Vertigo can indeed be influenced by both mental health conditions and tinnitus. The relationship between these factors can be intricate and multidimensional. Here’s how these connections can manifest:

• Vertigo Secondary to Mental Health Conditions: Mental health conditions such as anxiety and panic disorders can trigger or exacerbate vertigo symptoms. Anxiety and panic attacks can cause physiological changes that affect the inner ear and balance system, potentially leading to feelings of dizziness and vertigo. Additionally, heightened stress levels can contribute to muscle tension and changes in blood flow that impact the vestibular system.

• Vertigo Secondary to Tinnitus: Tinnitus, the perception of sound in the absence of external noise, can be distressing and impact overall well-being. The stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus can contribute to vertigo symptoms. Emotional distress linked to the persistent nature of tinnitus and its effects on daily life can amplify sensations of dizziness and imbalance.

• Interplay of Stress and Inner Ear Function: Stress and anxiety can lead to physiological responses in the body that affect the inner ear’s function and the vestibular system, which plays a key role in balance and spatial orientation. These changes can trigger vertigo episodes, especially in individuals who are already predisposed to vestibular issues.

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About the Author

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Brian Reese

Brian Reese is one of the top VA disability benefits experts in the world and bestselling author of You Deserve It: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Veteran Benefits You’ve Earned (Second Edition).

Brian’s frustration with the VA claim process led him to create VA Claims Insider, which provides disabled veterans with tips, strategies, and lessons learned to win their VA disability compensation claim, faster, even if they’ve already filed, been denied, gave up, or don’t know where to start. 

As the founder of VA Claims Insider and CEO of Military Disability Made Easy, he has helped serve more than 10 million military members and veterans since 2013 through free online educational resources.

He is a former active duty Air Force officer with extensive experience leading hundreds of individuals and multi-functional teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour to Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, and he holds an MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, Stillwater, OK, where he was a National Honor Scholar (Top 1% of Graduate School class).