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When it comes to securing your VA disability benefits, understanding secondary service connection is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal.
Many veterans focus solely on their primary service-connected conditions, but did you know that you can also get compensation for disabilities that develop because of your primary condition?
These are called secondary conditions, and they can be just as bad if not worse than primary conditions.
The good news?
You can get VA disability compensation benefits for secondary conditions in the same way you get them for primary conditions.
Secondary claims are generally easy to win with a strong nexus letter that explains the link or connection between your new secondary disability and your current service-connected disability.
In this high-value blog post, I’m going to walk you through the most common VA secondary claims that veterans can get approved for VA disability benefits.
Whether it’s headaches secondary to tinnitus, sleep apnea secondary to PTSD, or other conditions, I’ll break down what you need to know to maximize your VA disability rating and get the benefits you’ve earned.
Pro Tip: Make sure to get a nexus letter for any secondary VA claim. Why? Because “Medical Nexus Evidence” is a crucial requirement that connects your secondary condition to your primary service-connected disability. You need to present a strong case to the VA, demonstrating that your new secondary condition is either proximately due to or aggravated by your existing service-connected condition.
Table of Contents
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List of 110+ Easy VA Secondary Claims to Get Approved
Here’s a comprehensive list of the easiest VA secondary claims that veterans frequently get approved.
These conditions range from mental health issues to physical ailments that are directly linked to primary service-connected disabilities.
Explore this A-Z guide, organized alphabetically, to identify potential secondary claims you may qualify for, ensuring you receive the full benefits you’ve earned through your service to our country.
Anxiety secondary to Tinnitus
Anxiety can develop as a secondary condition to tinnitus due to the constant, intrusive ringing or buzzing in the ears. This ongoing stress can lead to heightened anxiety, making veterans feel restless or uneasy, especially in quiet environments where tinnitus is more noticeable.
Asthma secondary to GERD (acid reflux or heartburn)
GERD can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms when stomach acid irritates the airways, causing inflammation and respiratory distress. Veterans who experience frequent acid reflux may find that their asthma symptoms are exacerbated due to this condition.
Asthma secondary to Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can cause frequent interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to inflammation and worsening asthma symptoms. The lack of oxygen from OSA can aggravate asthma, making it more difficult to manage.
Asthma secondary to Depression
Depression can lead to physical inactivity and poor management of health, which may worsen asthma symptoms. Additionally, stress from depression can trigger asthma attacks, making depression a secondary condition linked to asthma.
Asthma secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can trigger asthma attacks or worsen symptoms by causing hyperventilation and airway constriction. The psychological stress from anxiety directly impacts asthma, making it a common secondary connection.
Asthma secondary to Allergies
Allergies, particularly those that affect the respiratory system, can lead to inflammation in the airways and trigger asthma symptoms. Common allergens like pollen or dust can worsen asthma, making it a secondary condition linked to allergies.
Asthma secondary to Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps, which obstruct airflow through the nasal passages, can make it more difficult for veterans to breathe and worsen asthma symptoms. This connection is common when chronic nasal issues persist alongside asthma.
Asthma secondary to Vocal Cord Dysfunction (Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction)
Vocal cord dysfunction can mimic asthma symptoms by restricting airflow and causing shortness of breath. Veterans with this condition often experience worsening asthma when the vocal cords do not function properly, leading to difficulty breathing.
Asthma secondary to Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome
Asthma-COPD overlap syndrome involves the coexistence of both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, leading to severe respiratory issues. The combination of these two conditions can worsen asthma, making it a secondary link.
Asthma secondary to Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis causes damage and widening of the airways, leading to difficulty clearing mucus. This chronic condition often exacerbates asthma symptoms due to the increased inflammation and mucus buildup.
Asthma secondary to Diabetes
Diabetes can weaken the immune system and impair lung function, which may aggravate asthma symptoms. Veterans with diabetes may experience more frequent or severe asthma attacks due to compromised respiratory health.
Bruxism secondary to PTSD
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is often linked to PTSD due to the heightened stress and anxiety associated with the disorder. Veterans may grind their teeth unconsciously during sleep as a result of their PTSD, leading to jaw pain and dental issues.
Bruxism secondary to Depression
Depression can lead to increased muscle tension, particularly at night, resulting in teeth grinding or clenching. This condition is commonly seen in veterans who struggle with sleep disturbances related to depression.
Bruxism secondary to Anxiety
Chronic anxiety can manifest physically through bruxism, where the body responds to stress by grinding teeth. This condition can cause significant dental wear and jaw pain, commonly seen in veterans with anxiety disorders.
Bruxism secondary to Tinnitus
The stress and frustration from persistent tinnitus can lead to bruxism as a coping mechanism, especially during sleep. The constant noise in the ears can trigger stress responses like teeth grinding, compounding dental and jaw issues.
Depression secondary to Tinnitus
Tinnitus can significantly affect a veteran’s quality of life, leading to feelings of isolation, frustration, and depression. The constant noise can be mentally exhausting, contributing to mood disorders like depression.
Depression secondary to Migraines
Chronic migraines can lead to depression due to the disabling pain and impact on daily life. Veterans suffering from frequent, severe headaches may experience hopelessness and fatigue, contributing to depression.
ED secondary to PTSD
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often linked to PTSD due to the psychological stress, anxiety, and trauma associated with the disorder. Veterans with PTSD may experience difficulties with sexual function as a result of their mental health struggles.
ED secondary to Depression
Depression can lead to reduced libido, difficulty maintaining arousal, and overall sexual dysfunction, making ED a common secondary condition. Veterans may experience ED as part of the physical toll depression takes on the body.
ED secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety, especially related to performance or intimacy, can directly lead to ED. Veterans with anxiety disorders may experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection due to the mental stress and worry.
ED secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications prescribed for conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety can cause erectile dysfunction as a side effect. Veterans who rely on these medications may experience ED as a direct result of their treatment.
ED secondary to Heart Disease
Heart disease impairs blood flow throughout the body, including to the genitals, leading to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with heart conditions often experience ED due to poor circulation and cardiovascular health.
ED secondary to Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, restricts blood flow, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with this condition may struggle with ED as a secondary result of impaired blood vessels.
ED secondary to High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, reducing blood flow and contributing to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with elevated cholesterol levels often experience ED as a secondary condition related to poor vascular health.
ED secondary to Hypertension
Hypertension (high blood pressure) can damage blood vessels and restrict blood flow, leading to ED. Veterans with hypertension may develop erectile dysfunction as a result of poor cardiovascular function.
ED secondary to Diabetes
Diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels, impairing circulation and leading to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with diabetes often experience ED as a common secondary condition due to the long-term effects of the disease.
ED secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity can lead to a variety of health issues, including erectile dysfunction. Veterans who experience significant weight gain may develop ED due to reduced circulation, hormone imbalances, and other related conditions.
ED secondary to Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects nerve function and can lead to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with Parkinson’s often experience sexual dysfunction as part of the progression of their neurological condition.
ED secondary to Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) impacts nerve signals throughout the body, often leading to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with MS may experience ED as part of their broader neurological impairments.
ED secondary to Prostate Cancer
Treatment for prostate cancer, including surgery or radiation, can damage nerves and blood vessels responsible for erectile function. Veterans who undergo treatment for prostate cancer frequently experience ED as a secondary condition.
ED secondary to Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can impair nerve signals responsible for sexual function, leading to erectile dysfunction. Veterans with spinal injuries often struggle with ED due to the loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to PTSD
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder can be linked to PTSD due to the psychological trauma and anxiety associated with the disorder. Veterans with PTSD may struggle with intimacy and sexual arousal as part of their mental health challenges.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to Depression
Depression can cause a reduction in libido and difficulty achieving arousal, contributing to Female Sexual Arousal Disorder. Veterans may experience this condition as a secondary effect of their ongoing mental health struggles.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can interfere with sexual function by causing stress, worry, and distraction, leading to difficulty with arousal. Veterans with anxiety disorders often experience challenges with sexual health as a result of their condition.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to Heart Disease
Heart disease reduces blood flow, which can impair sexual arousal and function. Veterans with heart conditions may experience Female Sexual Arousal Disorder due to compromised circulation and overall cardiovascular health.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to Neurological Conditions
Neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, can disrupt the nerve signals necessary for sexual arousal. Veterans with these conditions often experience difficulties with sexual function as a secondary result.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to Gynecological Conditions
Gynecological conditions, such as vulvovaginal atrophy or infections, can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty achieving arousal. Veterans with these conditions may experience Female Sexual Arousal Disorder as a secondary issue.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder secondary to Medication Side Effects
Medications prescribed for mental health or physical conditions can have side effects that include reduced libido and difficulty with arousal. Veterans taking such medications may experience Female Sexual Arousal Disorder as a secondary effect.
Fibromyalgia secondary to IBS
Fibromyalgia and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are often linked, with many veterans experiencing both conditions simultaneously. The chronic pain from fibromyalgia can exacerbate IBS symptoms, creating a secondary connection between the two conditions.
Fibromyalgia secondary to Migraines
Fibromyalgia and migraines frequently occur together, with veterans experiencing chronic pain in muscles and severe headaches. The persistent pain from fibromyalgia can worsen migraines, making it a secondary connection.
Fibromyalgia secondary to Interstitial Cystitis or Painful Bladder Syndrome
Veterans with interstitial cystitis often experience widespread pain similar to fibromyalgia, with the two conditions frequently co-occurring. The chronic nature of these conditions creates a secondary connection between them.
Fibromyalgia secondary to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which cause chronic jaw pain, are often linked to fibromyalgia. Veterans with TMJ issues may experience fibromyalgia as a secondary condition due to the widespread muscle pain associated with both conditions.
Fibromyalgia secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can exacerbate the chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia, creating a secondary connection. Veterans with anxiety may find that their mental health condition worsens their fibromyalgia symptoms.
Fibromyalgia secondary to Depression
Depression is commonly linked to fibromyalgia due to the overwhelming pain and fatigue caused by the condition. Veterans with depression may develop fibromyalgia as a secondary condition due to the mental and physical toll of chronic pain.
Fibromyalgia secondary to Postural Tachycardia Syndrome
Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) can lead to chronic pain and fatigue similar to fibromyalgia, making the two conditions closely linked. Veterans with POTS often develop fibromyalgia as a secondary condition due to the shared symptoms.
GERD secondary to Asthma
Asthma can lead to increased pressure in the chest, which may contribute to acid reflux or GERD. Veterans with asthma may experience GERD as a secondary condition due to the respiratory strain caused by asthma.
GERD secondary to PTSD
PTSD can cause digestive issues due to chronic stress and anxiety, leading to conditions like GERD. Veterans with PTSD may develop GERD as a secondary condition linked to their mental health disorder.
GERD secondary to Depression
Depression can lead to changes in appetite and digestion, contributing to conditions like GERD. Veterans who struggle with depression may develop GERD as a secondary condition due to poor digestive function and stress.
GERD secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can increase stomach acid production and lead to GERD. Veterans with anxiety disorders often experience GERD as a secondary condition due to the impact of stress on their digestive system.
GERD secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, particularly those used to treat pain or mental health conditions, can irritate the stomach lining and cause GERD. Veterans taking these medications may develop GERD as a secondary condition.
GERD secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity can increase abdominal pressure and lead to GERD. Veterans who experience significant weight gain may develop GERD as a secondary condition due to the physical strain on their digestive system.
Hypertension secondary to Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can increase blood pressure by causing frequent interruptions in breathing during sleep. Veterans with sleep apnea may develop hypertension as a secondary condition due to the strain on their cardiovascular system.
Hypertension secondary to PTSD
PTSD can lead to chronic stress and increased heart rate, contributing to hypertension. Veterans with PTSD often develop hypertension as a secondary condition due to the long-term effects of stress on the cardiovascular system.
Hypertension secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity can contribute to hypertension by placing additional strain on the heart and blood vessels. Veterans who experience significant weight gain may develop hypertension as a secondary condition related to their weight.
Hypertension secondary to Kidney Disease
Kidney disease can impair the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure, leading to hypertension. Veterans with kidney disease may experience hypertension as a secondary condition due to the impact on their renal system.
Hypertension secondary to Diabetes
Diabetes can damage blood vessels and lead to hypertension. Veterans with diabetes often develop hypertension as a secondary condition due to the long-term effects of poor blood sugar control on the cardiovascular system.
Hypertension secondary to Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism can increase the heart rate and lead to hypertension. Veterans with thyroid conditions may develop hypertension as a secondary condition due to the overactivity of the thyroid gland.
Hypertension secondary to Lupus
Lupus can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, leading to hypertension. Veterans with lupus often develop hypertension as a secondary condition due to the systemic inflammation caused by the autoimmune disease.
Hypertension secondary to Scleroderma
Scleroderma can cause scarring of the blood vessels, leading to hypertension. Veterans with this condition may develop hypertension as a secondary condition due to the vascular damage caused by the disease.
IBS secondary to PTSD
PTSD can disrupt the digestive system and contribute to conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Veterans with PTSD may develop IBS as a secondary condition due to the impact of chronic stress on digestion.
IBS secondary to Depression
Depression can cause changes in appetite and digestive function, contributing to IBS. Veterans who struggle with depression may experience IBS as a secondary condition due to poor digestive health and stress.
IBS secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can lead to digestive issues, including IBS. Veterans with anxiety disorders often experience IBS as a secondary condition due to the effects of stress on the gastrointestinal system.
IBS secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, particularly those used to treat mental health or pain conditions, can irritate the digestive system and lead to IBS. Veterans taking these medications may develop IBS as a secondary condition.
IBS secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity can disrupt digestion and lead to conditions like IBS. Veterans who experience significant weight gain may develop IBS as a secondary condition due to poor digestive health.
Meniere’s Syndrome secondary to Tinnitus
Tinnitus can be a symptom of Meniere’s syndrome, a disorder that affects balance and hearing. Veterans with tinnitus may develop Meniere’s syndrome as a secondary condition due to the progression of their inner ear issues.
Meniere’s Syndrome secondary to Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is closely linked to Meniere’s syndrome, as both conditions affect the inner ear. Veterans with hearing loss may develop Meniere’s syndrome as a secondary condition due to the underlying ear damage.
Meniere’s Syndrome secondary to Migraines
Migraines can be associated with balance issues and vertigo, symptoms commonly seen in Meniere’s syndrome. Veterans with chronic migraines may develop Meniere’s syndrome as a secondary condition due to the overlap of symptoms.
Meniere’s Syndrome secondary to TBI
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can affect the inner ear and lead to Meniere’s syndrome. Veterans who have sustained a TBI may develop Meniere’s syndrome as a secondary condition due to the damage to their vestibular system.
Migraines secondary to Tinnitus
Migraines can be triggered or worsened by the constant noise associated with tinnitus. Veterans with chronic tinnitus may develop migraines as a secondary condition due to the stress and discomfort caused by the ear condition.
Migraines secondary to Cervical Strain
Cervical strain, particularly in the neck, can lead to tension headaches or migraines. Veterans with chronic neck pain may experience migraines as a secondary condition due to muscle tension and nerve irritation.
Migraines secondary to GERD
GERD can contribute to the development of migraines due to the discomfort and stress caused by chronic acid reflux. Veterans with GERD may develop migraines as a secondary condition related to their digestive issues.
Migraines secondary to IBS
IBS can lead to migraines due to the ongoing stress and discomfort associated with digestive issues. Veterans with IBS may develop migraines as a secondary condition related to their gastrointestinal symptoms.
Migraines secondary to PTSD
PTSD can trigger migraines due to the heightened stress and anxiety associated with the disorder. Veterans with PTSD may develop migraines as a secondary condition due to the physical toll of their mental health struggles.
Migraines secondary to Insomnia
Insomnia, or the inability to sleep, can lead to migraines due to the lack of rest and increased stress on the body. Veterans who struggle with insomnia may develop migraines as a secondary condition.
Migraines secondary to Depression
Depression can lead to physical symptoms such as migraines, often due to the stress and fatigue associated with the condition. Veterans with depression may experience migraines as a secondary result of their mental health challenges.
Migraines secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can trigger migraines due to increased muscle tension, stress, and worry. Veterans with anxiety disorders often experience migraines as a secondary condition due to the physical toll of their mental health condition.
Migraines secondary to TBI
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can lead to chronic migraines as part of the damage to the brain and nervous system. Veterans who have sustained a TBI often experience migraines as a secondary condition due to the neurological effects of the injury.
Migraines secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, particularly those used to treat mental health or pain conditions, can trigger migraines as a side effect. Veterans taking these medications may develop migraines as a secondary condition related to their treatment.
Migraines secondary to Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease can cause severe vertigo and headaches, including migraines. Veterans with Meniere’s disease often experience migraines as a secondary condition due to the inner ear disorder.
Migraines secondary to Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, is often associated with migraines due to the widespread muscle pain and fatigue. Veterans with fibromyalgia may develop migraines as a secondary condition related to their pain disorder.
Migraines secondary to Heart Disease
Heart disease can lead to migraines due to poor circulation and blood flow. Veterans with heart conditions often experience migraines as a secondary condition related to their cardiovascular health.
Migraines secondary to Asthma
Asthma can trigger migraines due to the strain on the respiratory system and the lack of oxygen during asthma attacks. Veterans with asthma may develop migraines as a secondary condition due to the respiratory stress.
Plantar Fasciitis secondary to Foot Condition
Plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes pain in the heel, is often secondary to other foot conditions such as flat feet or heel spurs. Veterans with pre-existing foot conditions may develop plantar fasciitis as a secondary result.
Plantar Fasciitis secondary to Back Condition
Back conditions that affect posture and gait can contribute to plantar fasciitis by placing extra strain on the feet. Veterans with chronic back pain may develop plantar fasciitis as a secondary condition due to altered biomechanics.
Plantar Fasciitis secondary to Knees, Hips, Joint Instability
Joint instability in the knees or hips can lead to plantar fasciitis by causing uneven weight distribution and strain on the feet. Veterans with joint issues may experience plantar fasciitis as a secondary condition.
Plantar Fasciitis secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity can increase pressure on the feet, contributing to conditions like plantar fasciitis. Veterans who experience significant weight gain may develop plantar fasciitis as a secondary condition related to the extra strain on their feet.
Radiculopathy secondary to Back Pain
Radiculopathy, or nerve pain radiating from the spine, is often secondary to chronic back pain or spinal conditions. Veterans with severe back pain may develop radiculopathy as a secondary condition due to nerve compression.
Radiculopathy secondary to Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
Lumbosacral or cervical strain can lead to radiculopathy by compressing nerves in the lower back or neck. Veterans with these strains may develop radiculopathy as a secondary condition due to nerve irritation.
Radiculopathy secondary to Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, can compress nerves and cause radiculopathy. Veterans with spinal stenosis often experience radiculopathy as a secondary condition due to the pressure on their nerves.
Radiculopathy secondary to Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis, a condition where one vertebra slips out of place, can cause nerve compression and lead to radiculopathy. Veterans with this condition may develop radiculopathy as a secondary condition due to the instability in their spine.
Radiculopathy secondary to Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the spine, can cause nerve compression and lead to radiculopathy. Veterans with this condition may experience radiculopathy as a secondary result of spinal inflammation.
Radiculopathy secondary to Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion surgery can lead to radiculopathy if the procedure causes nerve irritation or compression. Veterans who have undergone spinal fusion may develop radiculopathy as a secondary condition.
Radiculopathy secondary to Vertebral Fracture or Dislocation
Fractures or dislocations of the vertebrae can compress nerves and lead to radiculopathy. Veterans who have sustained spinal injuries may experience radiculopathy as a secondary condition related to their trauma.
Restless Leg Syndrome secondary to Back Condition
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) can be triggered by chronic back conditions, especially those that affect nerve function. Veterans with back pain may develop RLS as a secondary condition due to nerve irritation in the lower spine.
Restless Leg Syndrome secondary to Neck Condition
Neck conditions that affect nerve function can also contribute to Restless Leg Syndrome. Veterans with chronic neck pain may develop RLS as a secondary condition due to the impact on the nervous system.
Restless Leg Syndrome secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, particularly those used to treat pain or mental health conditions, can cause Restless Leg Syndrome as a side effect. Veterans taking these medications may develop RLS as a secondary condition.
Restless Leg Syndrome secondary to Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the limbs, can lead to Restless Leg Syndrome. Veterans with nerve damage in their legs may experience RLS as a secondary condition due to the disrupted nerve signals.
Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD
PTSD can lead to sleep disturbances, including sleep apnea, due to chronic stress and anxiety. Veterans with PTSD may develop sleep apnea as a secondary condition related to their mental health struggles.
Sleep Apnea secondary to Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis can block airways and lead to sleep apnea by causing difficulty breathing during sleep. Veterans with sinus issues may develop sleep apnea as a secondary condition due to the restricted airflow.
Sleep Apnea secondary to Rhinitis
Rhinitis, or chronic nasal inflammation, can contribute to sleep apnea by obstructing breathing. Veterans with persistent nasal issues may experience sleep apnea as a secondary condition.
Sleep Apnea secondary to Deviated Septum
A deviated septum can obstruct nasal passages and lead to sleep apnea by making it difficult to breathe during sleep. Veterans with this condition may develop sleep apnea as a secondary result of their nasal obstruction.
Sleep Apnea secondary to Asthma
Asthma can exacerbate breathing difficulties during sleep, contributing to sleep apnea. Veterans with chronic asthma may develop sleep apnea as a secondary condition due to the respiratory strain caused by asthma.
Sleep Apnea secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity can contribute to sleep apnea by placing extra pressure on the airway during sleep. Veterans who experience significant weight gain may develop sleep apnea as a secondary condition.
Sleep Apnea secondary to GERD
GERD can worsen sleep apnea by causing acid reflux that irritates the airway during sleep. Veterans with GERD may develop sleep apnea as a secondary condition related to their digestive issues.
Somatic Symptom Disorder secondary to Tinnitus
Somatic Symptom Disorder, where physical symptoms are caused by psychological factors, can be secondary to tinnitus. Veterans with chronic tinnitus may develop this condition due to the stress and anxiety associated with their ear disorder.
Somatic Symptom Disorder secondary to Back Condition
Chronic pain from a back condition can lead to Somatic Symptom Disorder, where the veteran focuses on their physical symptoms to the point of psychological distress. Veterans with persistent back pain may develop this condition as a secondary result.
Somatic Symptom Disorder secondary to Neck Condition
Neck pain can contribute to Somatic Symptom Disorder, where physical symptoms are accompanied by psychological distress. Veterans with chronic neck pain may develop this condition as a secondary result of their ongoing discomfort.
Vertigo secondary to Tinnitus
Vertigo, or a sensation of spinning, can develop as a secondary condition to tinnitus, especially when the inner ear is affected. Veterans with chronic tinnitus may experience vertigo due to the impact on their balance and hearing.
Vertigo secondary to Migraines
Migraines can trigger episodes of vertigo due to the neurological disturbances associated with severe headaches. Veterans who suffer from chronic migraines may experience vertigo as a secondary condition.
Vertigo secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications can cause vertigo as a side effect, particularly those used to treat mental health or pain conditions. Veterans taking these medications may develop vertigo as a secondary condition.
Vertigo secondary to Head or Neck Conditions
Head or neck injuries can disrupt the inner ear and cause vertigo, a common secondary condition for veterans with trauma to these areas. Vertigo often arises when the vestibular system is damaged by such injuries.
Vertigo secondary to TBI
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can affect the vestibular system, leading to vertigo. Veterans who have experienced a TBI may develop vertigo as a secondary condition due to the damage caused to their brain and balance functions.
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About the Author
Brian Reese
Brian Reese is a world-renowned VA disability benefits expert and the #1 bestselling author of VA Claim Secrets and You Deserve It. Motivated by his own frustration with the VA claim process, Brian founded VA Claims Insider to help disabled veterans secure their VA disability compensation faster, regardless of their past struggles with the VA. Since 2013, he has positively impacted the lives of over 10 million military, veterans, and their families.
A former active-duty Air Force officer, Brian has extensive experience leading diverse teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, where he was a National Honor Scholar, ranking in the top 1% of his class.
