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If you suffer from high cholesterol, you might wonder if you can get a hyperlipidemia VA rating.
This post will help answer that question, including related conditions that may make you eligible for the VA disability benefits you deserve.
Let’s dive in.
Hyperlipidemia in Veterans
Hyperlipidemia, or high cholesterol, is an elevated level of lipids in your blood. The condition typically doesn’t produce symptoms and is found through routine bloodwork.
Generally, genetics significantly influences hyperlipidemia, but it can also be caused by obesity, saturated fat intake, and the cholesterol content within your diet.
The American Heart Association suggests the following lifestyle changes to help improve your cholesterol:
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Being more physically active
- Quit smoking
- Lose weight
While it’s usually easier said than done, any step in the right direction leads you to a healthier, fuller life.
Is There a VA Disability Rating for Hyperlipidemia?
Now that we know what it is, is even possible to get a hyperlipidemia VA disability rating?
No, the VA doesn’t view hyperlipidemia as a condition directly related to military service, as it’s primarily attributed to genetics, lifestyle, and age. Therefore, there is no hyperlipidemia VA rating (or VA rating for high cholesterol).
However, while you can’t qualify for a hyperlipidemia VA disability rating, there are related conditions that may qualify you for a VA rating and benefits, including:
Let’s take a closer look at these three conditions that may warrant you a VA disability rating related to hyperlipidemia.
Diabetes VA Disability Rating
The VA rates diabetes at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, or 100% under diagnostic code 7913, depending on the severity of your condition.
For example, if you can manage your diabetes with diet alone, you’ll likely receive a 10% VA rating. However, if you require insulin more than once daily, you may be eligible for a 100% VA rating.
See Also: VA Rating for Diabetes—Explained
High Blood Pressure VA Disability Rating
The VA rates high blood pressure at 10%, 20%, 40%, and 60% under diagnostic code 7101, depending on your diastolic blood pressure.
You may have high blood pressure due to high cholesterol or due to a secondary condition, including PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
See Also: VA Ratings for Hypertension: Explained
VA Disability for Heart Disease
High cholesterol can increase your chances of developing heart disease, leading to various heart conditions.
The VA rates ischemic heart disease at 10%, 30%, 60%, and 100% under diagnostic code 7005, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
See Also: VA Disability for Heart Conditions
How to Get Service Connected for a VA Disability
Despite the VA not recognizing hyperlipidemia as a disability, it’s crucial to understand how to file a VA claim for disabilities connected to your military service.
To receive VA disability for hyperlipidemia-related or other conditions, you must meet the following requirements:
- A current diagnosis of your condition
- An in-service event, injury, illness, or aggravation
- A medical nexus (i.e., link) between the current diagnosis and the in-service event, injury, or illness
You DESERVE a HIGHER VA rating.
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Take advantage of a VA Claim Discovery Call with an experienced Team Member. Learn what you’ve been missing so you can FINALLY get the disability rating and compensation you’ve earned for your service.
How to File a VA Claim
While there is no specific VA disability for high cholesterol, it’s essential to understand the steps to filing a VA claim if you qualify for a separate condition.
To file a VA claim, use the following five steps:
- Gather Documentation: Collect medical records showing current diagnosis, test results, service records, and other evidence, such as Medical Nexus Letter or Independent Medical Opinion (IMO) linking your condition to your military service.
- Complete VA Form 21-526EZ: Fill out this form to apply for disability compensation. Include details about your exposure, symptoms, and how it affects your daily life.
- Submit Your VA Claim: Send the completed form and supporting documents to the VA regional office handling your claim. You can submit it online through the VA website, by mail, or in person.
- Undergo Examinations: The VA might schedule you for medical examinations to evaluate the extent of your condition.
- Await the Decision: The VA will review your claim, considering the evidence provided.
The VA will notify you of their decision regarding your eligibility for a VA disability rating, including VA benefits and compensation.
Hyperlipidemia VA Rating (FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
Is high cholesterol a VA disability?
No, the VA doesn’t view high cholesterol as a disability related to service because it is generally considered a genetic condition or one that comes with age.
What is the VA disability rating for hyperlipidemia?
While there is no VA disability rating for hyperlipidemia, you may qualify for a VA rating for related conditions, including diabetes. For example, the VA rates diabetes at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, or 100%.
Can I get a VA rating for high cholesterol?
There is no high cholesterol VA rating, but you may qualify for VA disability if you have a similar condition like high blood pressure. The VA rates high blood pressure at 10%, 20%, 40%, and 60%, depending on the severity of your condition.
Is there a high triglycerides VA disability rating?
No, the VA doesn’t consider high triglycerides as a disability because they consider them laboratory findings.
NEED MORE ASSISTANCE?
Most veterans are underrated for their disabilities and, therefore, not getting their due compensation. At VA Claims Insider, we educate you on taking control of the claims process so you may get the rating and compensation you’re owed by law. If you’ve filed your VA disability claim and have been denied or have received a low rating—or you’re unsure how to get started—reach out to us!
Our process takes the guesswork out of filing a VA disability claim and supports you in building a fully developed claim (FDC)—so you may increase your rating FAST! Take advantage of a FREE VA Claim Discovery Call. Learn what you’ve been missing—so you can FINALLY get the disability rating and compensation YOU DESERVE!
Kelly Olone
Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse.
