Month: May 2022

Bilateral Hearing Loss in Veterans

in VA Disability

Bilateral hearing loss is a condition that affects both ears and results in reduced hearing sensitivity. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to loud noises, genetics, aging, infections, and certain medications. The degree of hearing loss can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to communicate and function in daily life.

Bilateral hearing loss is a common issue for veterans, especially those who have served in combat or in other noisy environments. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), hearing loss and tinnitus are the two most prevalent service-connected disabilities among veterans. In fact, the VA reported that nearly 1.3 million veterans received disability compensation for hearing loss in 2020.

If you are a veteran with bilateral hearing loss and it is impacting your ability to function in daily life, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. The VA provides disability compensation to veterans who have a current diagnosed disability that is related to their military service. To qualify for disability compensation, you must have:

  1. A current diagnosis of bilateral hearing loss or tinnitus
  2. Evidence that your hearing loss is related to your military service
  3. A VA disability rating, which is based on the severity of your hearing loss

To establish service connection for your hearing loss, you will need to provide evidence that your hearing loss is related to your military service. This can be done by providing evidence of exposure to loud noises, such as combat experience, training exercises, or working with heavy machinery. You will also need to provide medical evidence, such as hearing test results and doctor’s reports, to establish the severity of your hearing loss.

The VA disability rating for bilateral hearing loss is based on the degree of hearing loss, as measured by a hearing test. The rating ranges from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings indicating more severe hearing loss. The VA also provides additional compensation for hearing aids and other assistive devices that are needed to manage your hearing loss.

To apply for VA disability benefits for bilateral hearing loss, you can submit a claim online or through your local VA office. You will need to provide supporting documentation, including medical records and evidence of service connection. It is also helpful to work with a VA-accredited representative, such as a Veterans Service Officer or an attorney, to ensure that your claim is complete and accurate.

Bilateral hearing loss is a common condition among veterans and can significantly impact their daily life. If you are a veteran with bilateral hearing loss and it is impacting your ability to function, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. To qualify for benefits, you will need to establish service connection for your hearing loss and provide medical evidence to support your claim. Working with a VA-accredited representative can help ensure that your claim is complete and accurate.

What are the symptoms of Agent Orange Exposure.

in VA Disability

 
Agent Orange was a herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to destroy vegetation that provided cover for enemy troops. Unfortunately, the herbicide contained dioxin, a toxic chemical that can cause a range of health problems in humans. The effects of Agent Orange exposure can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure, but some of the most common symptoms are:
 

  1. Skin problems: Exposure can cause various skin problems, such as rashes, blisters, and acne-like lesions. These skin issues can be itchy and uncomfortable, and may take a long time to heal.

  2. Respiratory problems: Exposure can also cause respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may be a sign of bronchitis or asthma, which can be worsened by exposure to dioxin.

  3. Digestive problems: exposure can also affect the digestive system, causing problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms may be a sign of inflammatory bowel disease, which has been linked to exposure to dioxin.

  4. Neurological problems: Exposure can also affect the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and tremors. In some cases, it may also lead to peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.

  5. Cancer: One of the most serious long-term effects of exposure is an increased risk of cancer. The herbicide has been linked to various types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and prostate cancer. It can take several years or even decades for cancer to develop after exposure to Agent Orange.

  6. Reproductive problems: Exposure can also affect the reproductive system, causing problems such as infertility, miscarriages, and birth defects. Dioxin can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, leading to reproductive issues in both men and women.

  7. Psychological problems: Some studies have suggested that exposure may also increase the risk of psychological problems, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This may be due to the psychological stress of experiencing war or to the chemical effects of dioxin on the brain.

In conclusion, Agent Orange exposure can cause a range of health problems, from skin rashes and respiratory issues to cancer and reproductive problems. If you believe you may have been exposed to Agent Orange, it’s important to talk to your doctor and get tested for possible health issues. While there is no cure for Agent Orange exposure, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you have been denied VA benefits for Agent Orange exposure, contact our helpful attorneys  and let us see how we can help you.