Anyone needing to file for Disability, this law firm is 100% the best. I had them represent me 15 years ago after trying on my own for over 3 years and being denied over and over, they took over and I had not only peace of mind but realized I couldn’t have picked a better team to be there for me. I had Ms. Carol Ponton, and her and her team made a tremendous difference in my life, Thank You Team SO MUCH........Deborahlee Edwards
My VA experience with the Dallas sleep Apnea. It went well until my first visit when one woman slid her chair away and would not talk but she was great at staring. the woman in charge lied to me about helping with the mask and I on the next visit knew I was on my own. God bless you all.
Thank u for informing me on these. 2 medical conditions n. MEDICAL PROBLEMS. THEY THE. VA. HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS DOS NOT WORK AT ALL. HUNT FROM. SOUTH ORANGE 🍊 👌 😍 N..J. i know this through my experiences. With them. Ok Hunt out n in
for 30 years i have told the doctors at the VA exactly all the symptoms 30 f.... years. "we have to run more tests" the third test i stopped breathing 52 in a hour blood oxygen 72. "we have to run more tests" now im in a wheel power chair, my wonderful wife never leaves my side. "we have to run more tests" i'm 100% but still suffering.
If you have symptoms for hypertension, go to the ER. I recently went and the VA paid for my overnight observation and tests. I am 90% but don't have Hypertension in my records, but will be claiming it soon.
I went to the ER then to ICU on Halloween 2022 for a week. They did my sleep test in 2 hours 22 minutes I stopped breathing 38 times. But the damage had happened. Coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure. Afib.
My wife forced me to get tested for sleep apnea before I retired. Luckily I did and found out I had the worst doctors had seen. Additionally I had hypertension as well and receive benefits for both.
"Their spouse makes them go for an assessment". That's literally what I went through. I knew I snored loudly since I was in my teens, but my wife noticed I would stop breathing at night. Unfortunately military doctors don't want to request sleep studies. I had to beg the doctor for one by telling him it would get my wife off my back. The results showed I have pretty severe sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea: some pointers from my research: it needs to be ' ' Obstructive' ' Sleep Apnea. OSA is primarily caused by obesity. So if you are overweight you will need to make the nexus (connection) between your obesity and one of your service connected disabilities. For example, if you are SC for your knees from being a ground-pounder, you make the case that you your bad knees prevent you from exercising, hence the weight gain, therefore OSA is secondary to your knees bc your knees prevent exercise which caused weight gain which caused OSA. The same chain is valid for the meds you take for your other SC disabilities, provided a side effect of those meds is weight gain. It's rare that any of us got a sleep study on active duty, or had any idea that we should have got one to see if we had OSA. Hence the daisy-chain approach is your best shot. You will have to get a DBQ and Nexus letter from a professional who knows the drill on doing VA-Rating-Speak so that the VA doesn't deny you on a vocabulary technicality. When you get denied, go for the Higher Level Review. When the HLR is denied, get another DBQ and file a supplemental claim. My theory is the VA is going broke paying for all our disabilities so they do their best to keep the hole plugged in the dam.
Hi John, thank you for sharing your point of view. However, these are not true for all Veterans who receive service connection and not every Veteran has or has had the same experience. I have linked a great blog from our website with more information about ratings for Obstructive Sleep Apnea here www.hillandponton.com/obstructive-sleep-apnea-and-related-conditions/ Thank you for watching!
I need to get my appeal started and have this stuff taken into consideration. I also need to get my time at Ft. McClellan into it as well even though they don’t want to recognize it. They paid the city of Anniston, Alabama $750 million dollars whilst us veterans where put out to pasture.
How can I prove, sleep apnea, in my day when I was in the United states ARMY, that was not available to us , in the Vietnam era. I have the sleep study's and I have the capac. Device, I have high blood pressure, being treated at Jackson va hospital, in Jackson, Ms. I have diabetes also, what do I do next. Thanks, in advance
She mentioned it in the video. Get buddy statements that said you snored alot. Thats what I did. I got around five statements from buddies that slept in the same berthing as me.
@@jaimiegonzalez67on top of providing the idiots at the VA with my medical record indicating my severe sleep apnea, while I was in active duty status, I also got buddy statements after four previous attempts. But I guess its was the region I was in (San Antonio area) at the time that was notorious for turning down legit claims. The buddy letters helped in my olinion.
During my last back surgery at the Miami VA I stopped breathing on the table twice.I was told it was because of my apnea.Even though I ask about it every time I have an appointment it's always not that docs problem.
Hi Gregory, we are sorry to hear that happened during your surgery. I have linked more information here about service connection for Sleep Apnea www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
I was at 90, added sleep apnea and got to a 100%. Gotta get the sleep study, cpap machine, and a sleep doctor to write you a letter. That’s how I got it added.
Kudos for the video content! Forgive me for the intrusion, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you thought about - Millawdon Dessert Allowed Trick (probably on Google)? It is a great exclusive guide for exterminating your sleep apnea or snoring without the hard work. Ive heard some awesome things about it and my friend Sam after a lifetime of fighting got amazing success with it.
Make sure to get professional help to submit your claim. This group sounds well informed, and i am not pushing any specific group to help you, BUT there are different fee structures for different groups. The one that is handling mine gets 20% of my back pay if i get an increase, which i have realized means that it is better for THEM if they take longer to get me a higher rating because the back pay would be much more. The one that I will change to once my appeal comes back actually gets 5 times the amount of the increase. Which if you just think 5 times is a lot of money, it is, BUT it is much less than the 20% back pay from 2 years of waiting or more. I would definitely find the best people to help you, But i would make sure that the fee structure is not taking more than is reasonable as well.
I am 0% rated with Hypertension, and have been diagnosed with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea from my Sleep Study (VA Diagnosed it). I have been given a BiPAP machine, as well.
This is a problem I do not understand, I am also 0 percent for Hypertension. I tried to get a rating of at least 10 percent and I use medication for BP control . They also do not recongnize any link between HBP and sleep apnea no matter why the lawyers say. The VA does not care.
I'm going through the exact issue that was being discussed in this TH-cam clip. I have a service connected claim for hypertension with sleep apnea. I was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea years after I retired, but now I seeking compensation for both. Served in the Gulf War and it's on record that I was exposed to oil fires in both in Kuwait and Iraq and no telling what other toxic fumes. It's seems from what I'm told the VA doesn't always play fair by denying compensation or at a low percentage.
What if you are diagnosed and treated for hypertension and years later do a sleep study and diagnosed with sleep apnea, would sleep apnea be considered secondary.
I was in the marine reserves stationed at Camp Lejuene for over 4 months in 1984; I developed and diagnosised with obstructive sleep apnea wearing a cpap machine and hypertention. The VA denied meand continually denying me healthcare benefits because of lack of 24months service even though I'm honorable discharged
They just don't want to pay out for it. Countless vets have it and they just want to save money IMO. Yes, I'm salty since I can't get them to pay for mine.
Is it possible that you could have had a diagnosis for high blood pressure and the later developed sleep apnea as a result of uncontrolled high blood pressure?
Investigate nitric oxide. Absolutely NO doctor, VA or otherwise has ever even mentioned it to me. I'm VA treated for difficult to control high blood pressure. They have thrown drug in their arsenal at me to control it but still way to high. Nitric oxide WILL lower your blood pressure. you make it in your own body. Google it to learn and find how to activate it,
Request a sleep study from your primary care physician, request the cpap if it’s severe, get a sleep doctor to write you a letter to get it service connected.
I thing the general medical consensus is that SA can cause hypertension but not the other way around. I have service connected hypertension and tried to claim sleep apnea and was denied for that reason.
@@rogersmith7808 I had the same issue, I even had letters from battle buddies and still got denied. Not till I got a letter written by a sleep doctor was it service connected. Less than a week after I submitted the letter, I received a years worth of backpay
Sleep Apnea... I told my primary care doctor about how bad my sleep apnea is, and he called me "full of bullshit" and he helped a clinic falsify the test. (They put me on a mattress that was completely missing the middle, my butt was down on wood frame; I couldn't turn left or right. It was not comfortable. They put two high pillows under my head. My head was a full 12 to 15" higher than my hips. That completely changes how you breathe. But it's not comfortable at all. I asked them 4 times why the middle of the bed was missing but they would not answer me.) My wife and I are thinking about suing the doctor because I record every visit to my doctor and have it on tape.
Doses people are criminals ,report them to the Director of their department for liability, they have a new test, they give you a machine that you take home for some days, that is how i was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Remember you are the one suffering.
I'm a truck driver as well as a veteran and am having these issues. My main problem is finding the time to go and fight with the V.A. for my benefits. I could use some help with this.
Hi George, we are sorry. We understand it can be frustrating. You may find it helpful to work with a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group.
I’ve had a bipap for about two years for obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. The VA sent me to the sleep study, and gave me the bipap. I had no idea I could get a rating for it. I worked on the flight line on fighter jets.
Hi Shelby, here is more information about ratings for Sleep Apnea www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/ Thank you for watching!
Hello Hector, thanks for reaching out! If you'd like to get a free case evaluation, you can give us a call at 800-257-4400 or request a call here: www.hillandponton.com/free-case-evaluation/va-evaluation/
Allison, This is discussion is mostly process related to "ratings". I would like to know how most vets get sleep apnea. I FEEL I KNOW HOW I GOT IT I was classified 11B (light infantry in 1966) In Vietnam I was assigned to the 173rd Airborne. Our daily routine was 4hours guard duty concentrating on being alert for different noises outside our perimeter. After that it would be 8 hours of "attempted sleep". All the while listening for VC trying to crawl under the wire. It creates a ultra-alert sensitivity. You don't get DEEP SLEEP at all. .....do it 365 time's in a year and you are conditioned to sleep very light, or in my case not at all, a lot of times. This pattern has been with me for 50 years and getting worse
Does the sleep study have to be from the VA? I have done one with a civilian doctor. Been having sleep apnea and high blood pressure issues for more than 20 years. Its so hard to get this stuff service connected or even get seen for it
Negative. When filing a claim it is often beneficial to have medical records from outside providers who are not associated with the VA, although in filing a claim the VA will likely request an exam even if you already have all of the medical records, it's just part of the C&P Process unless you do what is referred to as an "ACE" claim, which are becoming more common as a result of COVID lockdowns.
I had a sleep study at the VA after my wife insisted I get tested bc I'd stop breathing. I got diagnosed with sleep apnea and was issued a c-pap from the VA. Was also put on blood pressure meds around the same time also. I filed a claim with the VA, even had buddy statements from people I served with, one was even a full bird Colonel now who was my former Platoon Leader. I was still denied from the VA??
The VA denied my sleep apnea but also said I didn't need a sleep study. I had already been diagnosed by a private Dr woth OSA and have since been diagnosed with OSA and other sleepbdisorders.
I have obstructive sleep apnea a bipod an heart failure also debetes also diagnosed with depression 3 buddy statements showing I had snored also was sent to mental health always falling asleep standing up
how can I be checked for hypertension and rated within the levels when I take many meds to lower my blood pressure? Thank You Both Ladies-outstanding Video
I left the Army with 10% SC. I was on 5mg Enalapril then as the years passed my dosages went up, meds changed, and now on 4 different meds for it. Because it is dangerous to come off the meds it is impossible to determine what your non-medicated is. I filed for an increase and was denied then appealed several times until I had a hearing. My basis was without medication increases it would not be controlled and I had 2 visits where it was elevated even on meds. I was upgraded to 20% from 10%. Just keep appealing and prepare your argument.
Filed sleep apnea,on cpap, secondary to sc osteoarthritis in hips 2 total hip replacements and lumbar spine w/obesity as intermediary. My VA online med rec shows 2 new VA med opinion letters with the less likelys than not. Say my phase 3 jaw surgery of military orthodontics--for malocclusion-was for air pulmonary structures…I.e., that I had it before service, snored 17 years, not diagnosed until 12 yrs post service… like Veterans Anonymous would know, but military not know, never check out my grumpy jaw to see if snoring vet has sleep apnea… despicable…willing to lawyer up once denied.
I get 60% disability rating for BP and lower back AND OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA issues upon discharge from active duty. I was given 10% for my BP. In November 2019, it was found that my BP stayed at 210/100 without proper meds. Furthermore, it was found that my cortisol level was so high that my meds had to be changed to get my cortisol levels down. I had to got thru surgery on my adrenal glands which was discovered at that time that my glands were producing too much cortisol and the other hormone that the adrenal gland produces (can’t remember the hormone name). When I went to review my medical record for the purpose of getting a higher disability rating, I was denied an increase for the BP. My rating did increase due to my back problem to 80%. My question is: should I be able to get a higher rating for my BP due to these hormone imbalances?
Hi Randy, we are sorry to hear that you have been struggling. Your question has been submitted to our attorney to hopefully be answered in an upcoming video. Please stay tuned! Thank you!
My husband went in Service as hypertension, What now? Plus later on he had heart problem, congestion heart failure, stints,blockages,open heart,blockages in his legs , amputated (both)
I developed hypertension in the military while pregnant with my child. It continued after childbirth and still continues to this day. At first, when being seen at the VA (everytime) my pressure would be taken, it would be high and the nurse would manipulate my arm to get my pressure down. Finally, my PCP at the VA prescribed medication for the high blood pressure. However, I am rated zero or not service connected (cant remember, must recheck my rating)
Well as you stated it was developed due to pregnancy and not due to service related conditions. You pretty much answered your own question. Just because it happened while you were in the service doesn’t mean it happened DUE to service.
I'm suffering from so many health issues. Most of these issues resulted from stress beginning when I was in the service. Although I was on active duty for a year, I was forced out because of a race problem on board the ship. I am a black man who grew up in the deep south, so to speak. Well, I wanted to go to officer candidate school. As a result, I was chosen by the Division officers to become a Yeoman of the division. Soon after, I came under attack by a 1st Class Petty officer and a Chief Petty Officer. Together they made false reports against me, and I was forced to leave the Navy prematurely. Ever since that time, I have had to live my life in the shadows, so to speak. I did receive a general discharge, however, but I developed a host of problems that began when I was in the military to cope. Now, I have all kinds of health problems being over 65, which began during my time in the service. My doctor reminds that I should apply for disability. I've been ashamed to get help all of my life. I only recently learned that a book was written about the "racial" problems on the ship at the time. I remember hearing then that special meetings were going on onshore. It's a fact that many African American sailors were discharged at the same time. At 19, I simply had no understanding of what I could do. Any advice for me would be welcomed. Thank you.
@@HillAndPonton I don't need any information. I was just stating what is necessary to service connect sleep aptnia. It has to be a secondary to an already established SC illness.
I had Va. To do Audit on me, back in 1982 Va Hospital had me do C-P both of my knees , Doctor told told them I refuse bend down , I told him that hurt bend my. So Va. gave 0%. In 1989 file a claim. Got denied again. So 2004. I have knee replacement on my right knee so increase my rate 30% . But they didn't give me no retro pay. In 2016 I have knee replacement surgery on my Left knee. But no retro pay. I apply for audit but they said that I my claim would not warrent back pay. Can you please tell me why not?, If you find good VSO and feel comfortable. Then let them representative. In time you can tell if they are good look at the review. Because that will help you.
If you have a sleep study done by a specialist and were prescribed CPap (and currently using) and high blood pressure meds, do you still have to have an ADDITIONAL sleep study done via the VA?
Hi Tiffany, the answer is that it would depend on many variables. For help regarding this and the information you would need for a claim, it would be best to consult a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group. We do have a great blog on this subject that I have linked here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
@@HillAndPonton I have a family member who was diagnosed with hypertension during the military, but sleep apnea not until 25 years later. He filed a claim for sleep apnea from awarded depression, but it was denied. He had a buddy letter speaking of the symptoms you mentioned, and that it started in the military, but still his claim was denied. Should he resubmit for the claim of only sleep apnea as the main claim, then hypertension as secondary? His doctor is confused how to link the sleep apnea to his active duty time. Thanks.
We have a great written blog with a lot of information about getting service connection for Sleep Apnea. I have linked it here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/ We hope you will find this helpful!
I am an Air National Guard member. I have been on three Active Duty deployments to the Middle East. I am also a DoD Federal Civil Service employee, FERS, who is employed at my military unit. I wear the military uniform every day although I work as a civilian during the week and then a Traditional Guard member just one weekend a month. I am required to wear the military uniform, OCP's, because my two jobs are tied together. In addition, I joined the U.S. Army straight out of high school and served a two year contract (two year contracts were being offered in 1984). As Air National Guard members who only serve one weekend a month in a Title 32 status we are told that we can only make disability claims when on Active Duty status, Title 10. Do you know if this is true? I'm asking because I suffer from sleep apnea. My wife will often wake me up because I am not breathing, or at the least not breathing properly. So, as I understand it, I can only have a sleep test performed when I am on Active Duty orders, Title 10, not Title 32. We are told that this is to ensure that the issue will be covered as a disability related to service. The problem is that I may not serve again under Title 10 status, at least not long enough to afford me time to schedule a sleep study. Do you know if Guard members are required to be serving under Title 10 status in order to have service related issues diagnosed? Thanks so much for your help. I just came across your channel and will be following up on your provided website. I appreciate what you are doing for service members, and how clear and concise you are in providing the information. Very well done!
Thank you for sharing and watching! We are sorry, but in regards to our question, it would be best to contact the VA directly for the most accurate information. We hope that you are able to get your answer and wish you the best.
DC, I had that issue as well but ran across this code and was able to use it to get a 20% rating on a knee injury that happened on a UTA weekend. 38 USC 101(24)(C)(i) inactive duty training (23) The term “inactive duty training” means- (A) duty (other than full-time duty) prescribed for Reserves (including commissioned officers of the Reserve Corps 1 of the Public Health Service) by the Secretary concerned under section 206 of title 37 or any other provision of law; (B) special additional duties authorized for Reserves (including commissioned officers of the Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service) by an authority designated by the Secretary concerned and performed by them on a voluntary basis in connection with the prescribed training or maintenance activities of the units to which they are assigned; and (C) training (other than active duty for training) by a member of, or applicant for membership (as defined in section 8140(g) of title 5 ) in, the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps prescribed under chapter 103 of title 10. In the case of a member of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard of any State, such term means duty (other than full-time duty) under sections 316, 502, 503, 504, or 505 of title 32, or the prior corresponding provisions of law. Such term does not include (i) work or study performed in connection with correspondence courses, (ii) attendance at an educational institution in an inactive status, or (iii) duty performed as a temporary member of the Coast Guard Reserve. Hope this helps.
I've been service connected for diabetes and hypertension. I was denied for OSA secondary to PTSD. Now that I'm service connected for hypertension should I put in a supplemental claim for OSA?
Sounds like it may be worth looking into Richard. Here's our article on filing claims for secondary conditions: www.hillandponton.com/filing-secondary-conditions/
I have a 60% service connected rating for hypertension and heart disease. Since receiving that rating I have had multiple hospitalizations for heart disease and had 3 cardiac stents placed. The VA has diagnosed me with "severe" complex sleep apnea which requires BIPAP ( a more sophisticated CPAP) and supplemental oxygen at night. Also, my PCP has recently given me a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. I am on 19 scheduled medications from VA doctors for hypertension, angina, and diabetes. Do you think I qualify for more than a 60% rating?
If you are still seeking VA disability compensation contact the the Friedman Law firm in Birmingham Alabama and tell them I referred you. Very professional reputable Law Firm.
Ive had a cpap for years , but didn't get a sleep study done in the service. I had it done after getting out so I have no idea if I can get it service connected
Thank you for watching! I have linked our written blog about getting service connected for Sleep Apnea here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
You have described my problems to a T. I was just diagnosed w/ severe obstructive sleep apnea. Have developed High BP and diabetes over the last few years.
I have SA, VA even issued a Cpap, but has twice denied me for SA. I just got awarded 60% for Quality of Life claim. Can I NOW get them to add SA to my rating?
How about exposure to JP-5 , diabetes , sleep apnea and hypertension and fibromyalgia neuropathy in the legs , hello getting nonservice connected I can’t seem to get service connection I was standing in JP-5 for 3 1/2 hours i’m bored in a ship
Hi Richard, we are sorry to hear about the hardships you have been facing. Please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 to see if we may be able to assist. Thank you!
Hi Donald, there is a known connection between PTSD and Sleep Apnea. Out website states "Research has shown that their veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, may be at risk for sleep apnea. There are factors that overlap in both disorders which affect and aggravate each other." I have linked more information here as well www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
@@HillAndPonton Thank you. I was in a VA research study in 2013. Started CPAP-APAP with great improvement in PTSD symptoms. But I haven't refiled a Claim yet, since I was denied PTSD in 2004 and hate dredging up Vietnam.
I do have Hypertension service connected and Sleep Apnea not service connected for 6 years already, could I file sleep apnea for secondary condition related to my high blood pressure? Thank you...
Great Video. Thank you for all the knowledge you give us. However, one subject puzzles me. If I was diagnosed with sleep apnea while I was Active Duty. Also, If I conducted a sleep study , and issued a CPAP Machine while I was on Active Duty, will I still need to have an Event in Service like a Car Wreck to file a direct claim ? I have all the documents proving this. The only thing is that I do not have an event to name the cause. I just conducted a sleep study, got diagnosed, and issued a CPAP all while I was on Active Duty. Is that enough for a Direct-Service Claim ?
That post concussion syndrome, You should ask your lawyers to look into testing you for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) I was a loader on a Big gun, and i just found out about it. It is caused by explosions primarily , but other things as well, like blows to the head.
I claimed sleep apnea secondary to ptsd and was denied. Later I was awarded for diabetes and hypertension. I sent my sleep apnea claim to a law judge. What are my chances of winning my sleep apnea claim?
I've been diagnosed with sleep apnea for many years thru the VA but they denied my claim. I was deployed to Sinai Egypt during the Gulf War for 8 months January 1991 thru August 1991. What can I do to get my claim approved. I've been using a CPAP for many years thru the VA
I have severe sleep apnea and hypertension which I think has led to AFib I recently had a heart ablation because of the AFib. My BP is medically controlled but still is usually over 140/80 sometimes as high as 160+/89. Does the medical assistance to control BP have a bearing on the VA consideration
Hi Aaron, yes, it is possible to be rated for Central Sleep Apnea. Just as a Vet might be rated for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, they can also be rated for Central Sleep Apnea with 0, 30, 50, or 100 percent rating depending on the severity of their condition. Thank you for watching!
i need clarification on how to read the CFR for hypertension in the M21-1III_iv_4_SecE the va defines hypertension as "Hypertension means elevated diastolic blood pressure is predominantly 90mm or greater." Isolated systolic hypertension: means that systolic blood pressure is predominantly 160mm or greater with a diastolic blood pressure of less than 90mm. but in the 38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, Note 1. under 7101 Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension): it uses "Diastolic" instead of "Systolic" to define hypertension and isolated hypertension is this an error? if this is not an error how can one be following both the definitions of "hypertension" and "isolated systolic hypertension" in M21-1III_iv_4_SecE and also following the two criteria in the 38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, Note 1. , if we were to use the criteria in the M21-1III_iv_4_SecE isolated systolic hypertension then "diastolic Blood Pressure" should be "LESS" than 90MM but if we compare that to "38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, Note 1." then "DIASTOLIC" needs to be "predominantly 100 or more" which would take us out of the original defintion of hypertension, i believe the use of "diastolic" in the note 1 is an error, could anyone clarify this???
Funny you say spouse. I knew a Marine in Florida who came up to me all excited and said "MY WIFE GOT ME MY 100%." I asked how. He said she was cleaning out the closet and found old photos that she had taken when the gov sent them into a theater where they weren't but were in a hospital that they never were in and she had brought a camera and they had kept the photos. Furthermore, she helped his buddies also get their claims started.
Hi Anton, it may still be possible to be rated for Sleep Apnea if it is connected to your service. We have a great written blog with more information that I have linked here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
I did get sleep study, positive for obstructive sleep apnea, positive for central sleep apnea, im with CPAP, but guess what? I filed a claim for that and they didn't rate me , i'm rated 60% for other conditions, very hard to win cases even with proof.
It's not difficult to show you have sleep apnea. The difficult part is tying it to military service without some documentation dated while you were active duty to back it up.
Unbelievable Interview with Natalia Jofre it was like a light bulb was turned on because my snoring is out of control i wake up coughing almost every night. Had the 24 hr test done but not with the V.A im taking b.p med Nifedipen 30 MG. I'm now 10% for skin condition. 21years in the Army Retired. Do I have a case?
Anyone needing to file for Disability, this law firm is 100% the best. I had them represent me 15 years ago after trying on my own for over 3 years and being denied over and over, they took over and I had not only peace of mind but realized I couldn’t have picked a better team to be there for me. I had Ms. Carol Ponton, and her and her team made a tremendous difference in my life, Thank You Team SO MUCH........Deborahlee Edwards
Thank you Deborahlee for your kind words! We are so happy that we were able to help you!
I agree these Ladys did excellent we appreciate what your doing for we Vets
I'm glad it worked out for you but unfortunately, I was told they couldn't help me.
I 77
But, I was told that we shouldn’t have to pay for getting our disabilities approved!
Thanks to DAV for helping me with my % of VA disability.
We are very glad that you were able to get your rightful benefits!
Thank you. Will call today.
Great information and thanks for sharing. I’ve been diagnosed Hypertension during active duty and now diagnosed with severe sleep apnea.
Thank you for wonderful job to all us(Vets)
My VA experience with the Dallas sleep Apnea. It went well until my first visit when one woman slid her chair away and would not talk but she was great at staring. the woman in charge lied to me about helping with the mask and I on the next visit knew I was on my own. God bless you all.
Thank you for watching and we are so sorry to hear about your bad experience. We hope that you have been able to get the help you need.
Thank u for informing me on these. 2 medical conditions n. MEDICAL PROBLEMS. THEY THE. VA. HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS DOS NOT WORK AT ALL. HUNT FROM. SOUTH ORANGE 🍊 👌 😍 N..J. i know this through my experiences. With them. Ok Hunt out n in
That sounds creepy- damn!
for 30 years i have told the doctors at the VA exactly all the symptoms 30 f.... years. "we have to run more tests" the third test i stopped breathing 52 in a hour blood oxygen 72. "we have to run more tests" now im in a wheel power chair, my wonderful wife never leaves my side. "we have to run more tests" i'm 100% but still suffering.
If you have symptoms for hypertension, go to the ER. I recently went and the VA paid for my overnight observation and tests. I am 90% but don't have Hypertension in my records, but will be claiming it soon.
I went to the ER then to ICU on Halloween 2022 for a week. They did my sleep test in 2 hours 22 minutes I stopped breathing 38 times. But the damage had happened. Coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure. Afib.
My wife forced me to get tested for sleep apnea before I retired. Luckily I did and found out I had the worst doctors had seen. Additionally I had hypertension as well and receive benefits for both.
How are you doing since you last posted condition.
"Their spouse makes them go for an assessment". That's literally what I went through. I knew I snored loudly since I was in my teens, but my wife noticed I would stop breathing at night. Unfortunately military doctors don't want to request sleep studies. I had to beg the doctor for one by telling him it would get my wife off my back. The results showed I have pretty severe sleep apnea.
Hi Michael, we are sorry that you suffer from Sleep Apnea. We are glad that you are getting assistance with this condition though.
My wife did this. Seems when I'm in hypoxia I thrash around and she gets beat up. I had 80 arousals / hr.
This is all starting to make sense. Thank you
You have to advocate for yourself. I have talked to too many vets who never use any of their benefits.
Sleep Apnea:
some pointers from my research:
it needs to be ' ' Obstructive' ' Sleep Apnea. OSA is primarily caused by obesity. So if you are overweight you will need to make the nexus (connection) between your obesity and one of your service connected disabilities.
For example, if you are SC for your knees from being a ground-pounder, you make the case that you your bad knees prevent you from exercising, hence the weight gain, therefore OSA is secondary to your knees bc your knees prevent exercise which caused weight gain which caused OSA. The same chain is valid for the meds you take for your other SC disabilities, provided a side effect of those meds is weight gain.
It's rare that any of us got a sleep study on active duty, or had any idea that we should have got one to see if we had OSA. Hence the daisy-chain approach is your best shot. You will have to get a DBQ and Nexus letter from a professional who knows the drill on doing VA-Rating-Speak so that the VA doesn't deny you on a vocabulary technicality. When you get denied, go for the Higher Level Review. When the HLR is denied, get another DBQ and file a supplemental claim.
My theory is the VA is going broke paying for all our disabilities so they do their best to keep the hole plugged in the dam.
Hi John, thank you for sharing your point of view. However, these are not true for all Veterans who receive service connection and not every Veteran has or has had the same experience. I have linked a great blog from our website with more information about ratings for Obstructive Sleep Apnea here www.hillandponton.com/obstructive-sleep-apnea-and-related-conditions/ Thank you for watching!
I need to get my appeal started and have this stuff taken into consideration. I also need to get my time at Ft. McClellan into it as well even though they don’t want to recognize it. They paid the city of Anniston, Alabama $750 million dollars whilst us veterans where put out to pasture.
That's true I was there back in 1988 military police and after going to my duty station,I had to have a double mastectomy after leaving there
How can I prove, sleep apnea, in my day when I was in the United states ARMY, that was not available to us , in the Vietnam era. I have the sleep study's and I have the capac. Device, I have high blood pressure, being treated at Jackson va hospital, in Jackson, Ms. I have diabetes also, what do I do next. Thanks, in advance
She mentioned it in the video. Get buddy statements that said you snored alot.
Thats what I did. I got around five statements from buddies that slept in the same berthing as me.
@@orlandoherreraoutdoorstexa7353 u got service connected for just buddy statements?
@@jaimiegonzalez67on top of providing the idiots at the VA with my medical record indicating my severe sleep apnea, while I was in active duty status, I also got buddy statements after four previous attempts.
But I guess its was the region I was in (San Antonio area) at the time that was notorious for turning down legit claims.
The buddy letters helped in my olinion.
Lol, we’ll I’m a new subscriber. My wife made me go get test for sleep apnea and well guess what? I have sleep apnea and high blood pressure.
I was turned down for sleep apnea and my hearing. Got to love the VA
suppose to go for a test in a sleep place
Please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 to see if we may be able to assist. Thank you!
I have COPD as a Primary and Sleep apnea as a secondary. Connecting it to a primary was necessary to claim sleep apnea as a secondary.
Download the CFR 38 and read around.
During my last back surgery at the Miami VA I stopped breathing on the table twice.I was told it was because of my apnea.Even though I ask about it every time I have an appointment it's always not that docs problem.
Hi Gregory, we are sorry to hear that happened during your surgery. I have linked more information here about service connection for Sleep Apnea www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
I have positional sleep apnea. I stop breathing when I'm on my back. I have to sleep on my side. No doctor with give you a c-pap for positional apnea.
Outstanding well done
Glad you enjoyed it, Xavier! Thanks for watching.
I m at 90%, I wonder if this would place me at 100%?, never mind you answer my question at the 12:00 minute mark
I was at 90, added sleep apnea and got to a 100%. Gotta get the sleep study, cpap machine, and a sleep doctor to write you a letter. That’s how I got it added.
I have just been denide e, I’ve had Hyperion since 1983 and sleep apnea for about 10 years. I have a claim in now for sleep apnea ,
Great information, I am right know working in a claim for hypertension secondary to sleep apnea.
We are so glad you found this information helpful!
Same here I’m doing a claim for the same now
Omg ty for this video, I'm suffering from both and thought the va was a useless route
Thank you for watching and we are glad you found it informative!
Also writing or filing a lays statement is a great weapon to speak on your behalf
I have diabetes and hypertension and am diagnosed with S.A. my SA was denied, and I had a nexus letter,sleep study, and describe a machine
This was helpful information. I’m just starting to research stuff I don’t know about. And trying to figure out what I can claim.
Kudos for the video content! Forgive me for the intrusion, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you thought about - Millawdon Dessert Allowed Trick (probably on Google)? It is a great exclusive guide for exterminating your sleep apnea or snoring without the hard work. Ive heard some awesome things about it and my friend Sam after a lifetime of fighting got amazing success with it.
Make sure to get professional help to submit your claim. This group sounds well informed, and i am not pushing any specific group to help you, BUT there are different fee structures for different groups. The one that is handling mine gets 20% of my back pay if i get an increase, which i have realized means that it is better for THEM if they take longer to get me a higher rating because the back pay would be much more. The one that I will change to once my appeal comes back actually gets 5 times the amount of the increase. Which if you just think 5 times is a lot of money, it is, BUT it is much less than the 20% back pay from 2 years of waiting or more. I would definitely find the best people to help you, But i would make sure that the fee structure is not taking more than is reasonable as well.
I am 0% rated with Hypertension, and have been diagnosed with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea from my Sleep Study (VA Diagnosed it). I have been given a BiPAP machine, as well.
This is a problem I do not understand, I am also 0 percent for Hypertension. I tried to get a rating of at least 10 percent and I use medication for BP control . They also do not recongnize any link between HBP and sleep apnea no matter why the lawyers say. The VA does not care.
appeal it
Nice information
Thanks for watching!
I'm going through the exact issue that was being discussed in this TH-cam clip. I have a service connected claim for hypertension with sleep apnea. I was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea years after I retired, but now I seeking compensation for both. Served in the Gulf War and it's on record that I was exposed to oil fires in both in Kuwait and Iraq and no telling what other toxic fumes. It's seems from what I'm told the VA doesn't always play fair by denying compensation or at a low percentage.
Sorry I forgot to mention first and foremost how informative this TH-cam clip was. Thank you so much.
What if you are diagnosed and treated for hypertension and years later do a sleep study and diagnosed with sleep apnea, would sleep apnea be considered secondary.
Good question. Waiting for that answer as well...
Thanks very informative
Thank you! We are glad it was helpful!
Very informative.
Awesome information ladies!
Very informative video. Thank you!
I was in the marine reserves stationed at Camp Lejuene for over 4 months in 1984; I developed and diagnosised with obstructive sleep apnea wearing a cpap machine and hypertention. The VA denied meand continually denying me healthcare benefits because of lack of 24months service even though I'm honorable discharged
They just don't want to pay out for it. Countless vets have it and they just want to save money IMO. Yes, I'm salty since I can't get them to pay for mine.
If you still need help with this let me know and I can refer you to a reputable Law firm that won my case.
Is it possible that you could have had a diagnosis for high blood pressure and the later developed sleep apnea as a result of uncontrolled high blood pressure?
Investigate nitric oxide. Absolutely NO doctor, VA or otherwise has ever even mentioned it to me. I'm VA treated for difficult to control high blood pressure. They have thrown drug in their arsenal at me to control it but still way to high. Nitric oxide WILL lower your blood pressure. you make it in your own body. Google it to learn and find how to activate it,
Request a sleep study from your primary care physician, request the cpap if it’s severe, get a sleep doctor to write you a letter to get it service connected.
I thing the general medical consensus is that SA can cause hypertension but not the other way around. I have service connected hypertension and tried to claim sleep apnea and was denied for that reason.
@@rogersmith7808 I had the same issue, I even had letters from battle buddies and still got denied. Not till I got a letter written by a sleep doctor was it service connected. Less than a week after I submitted the letter, I received a years worth of backpay
@@Migmuffin1 Wow, good for you!
Sleep Apnea... I told my primary care doctor about how bad my sleep apnea is, and he called me "full of bullshit" and he helped a clinic falsify the test. (They put me on a mattress that was completely missing the middle, my butt was down on wood frame; I couldn't turn left or right. It was not comfortable. They put two high pillows under my head. My head was a full 12 to 15" higher than my hips. That completely changes how you breathe. But it's not comfortable at all. I asked them 4 times why the middle of the bed was missing but they would not answer me.) My wife and I are thinking about suing the doctor because I record every visit to my doctor and have it on tape.
wow thats crazy a doctor should never say that.. even if you didnt have it.. go to another sleep center and find another doctor
I have fired doctors like the one you describe! I found a doctor that listens to me and works with me.
Doses people are criminals ,report them to the Director of their department for liability, they have a new test, they give you a machine that you take home for some days, that is how i was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Remember you are the one suffering.
sue!
I'm a truck driver as well as a veteran and am having these issues. My main problem is finding the time to go and fight with the V.A. for my benefits. I could use some help with this.
Hi George, we are sorry. We understand it can be frustrating. You may find it helpful to work with a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group.
I got a 50 percent rating for my obstructive sleep apnea the thing I had I'm my favor is I got diagnosed while I was on active duty at my duty station
We are sorry that you suffer from Sleep Apnea and we hope that you are getting the assistance you need. Thank you for watching!
@@HillAndPonton I'm going to continue watching I'm always interested in things and rights I may not know I have
Thank you for another great video you guys are awsome
I’ve had a bipap for about two years for obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. The VA sent me to the sleep study, and gave me the bipap. I had no idea I could get a rating for it. I worked on the flight line on fighter jets.
Hi Shelby, here is more information about ratings for Sleep Apnea www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/ Thank you for watching!
How can I get your help ? I have big problems
Hello Hector, thanks for reaching out! If you'd like to get a free case evaluation, you can give us a call at 800-257-4400 or request a call here: www.hillandponton.com/free-case-evaluation/va-evaluation/
Great Info! What if the meds prescribe is the only way to keep your BP in check? Does that make the case for a BP condition for a rating?
Granted hypertension 10percent no pay increase what can I do
Allison,
This is discussion is mostly process
related to "ratings".
I would like to know how most vets
get sleep apnea.
I FEEL I KNOW HOW I GOT IT
I was classified 11B (light infantry in 1966) In Vietnam I was assigned
to the 173rd Airborne. Our daily routine was 4hours guard duty concentrating on being alert for different noises outside our perimeter. After that it would be 8
hours of "attempted sleep". All the while listening for VC trying to crawl
under the wire. It creates a ultra-alert
sensitivity. You don't get DEEP SLEEP at all. .....do it 365 time's in a year and you are conditioned to sleep very light, or in my case not at all, a lot of times.
This pattern has been with me for
50 years and getting worse
Does the sleep study have to be from the VA? I have done one with a civilian doctor. Been having sleep apnea and high blood pressure issues for more than 20 years. Its so hard to get this stuff service connected or even get seen for it
Negative. When filing a claim it is often beneficial to have medical records from outside providers who are not associated with the VA, although in filing a claim the VA will likely request an exam even if you already have all of the medical records, it's just part of the C&P Process unless you do what is referred to as an "ACE" claim, which are becoming more common as a result of COVID lockdowns.
I had a sleep study at the VA after my wife insisted I get tested bc I'd stop breathing. I got diagnosed with sleep apnea and was issued a c-pap from the VA. Was also put on blood pressure meds around the same time also. I filed a claim with the VA, even had buddy statements from people I served with, one was even a full bird Colonel now who was my former Platoon Leader. I was still denied from the VA??
Could you talk about the link between sleep apnea and ptsd
The VA Hospital in Buffalo did a study that linked Sleep Apnea to PTSD..
Good info
Glad it was helpful!
The VA denied my sleep apnea but also said I didn't need a sleep study. I had already been diagnosed by a private Dr woth OSA and have since been diagnosed with OSA and other sleepbdisorders.
Can I file a claim for diabetes secondary to sleep apnea
May seem like a simple question. When a veteran has been given a CPAP machine how does one determine % of service connection?
Thank you
Also I have diagnosed with an enlarged left ventricle. Not sure if this is something connected to high blood pressure?
I have obstructive sleep apnea a bipod an heart failure also debetes also diagnosed with depression 3 buddy statements showing I had snored also was sent to mental health always falling asleep standing up
Do you have a video that explains how to file a secondary connection?
I didn't know i could claim hypertension. But I think I have it under control.
how can I be checked for hypertension and rated within the levels when I take many meds to lower my blood pressure? Thank You Both Ladies-outstanding Video
I left the Army with 10% SC. I was on 5mg Enalapril then as the years passed my dosages went up, meds changed, and now on 4 different meds for it. Because it is dangerous to come off the meds it is impossible to determine what your non-medicated is. I filed for an increase and was denied then appealed several times until I had a hearing. My basis was without medication increases it would not be controlled and I had 2 visits where it was elevated even on meds. I was upgraded to 20% from 10%. Just keep appealing and prepare your argument.
Filed sleep apnea,on cpap, secondary to sc osteoarthritis in hips 2 total hip replacements and lumbar spine w/obesity as intermediary. My VA online med rec shows 2 new VA med opinion letters with the less likelys than not. Say my phase 3 jaw surgery of military orthodontics--for malocclusion-was for air pulmonary structures…I.e., that I had it before service, snored 17 years, not diagnosed until 12 yrs post service… like Veterans Anonymous would know, but military not know, never check out my grumpy jaw to see if snoring vet has sleep apnea… despicable…willing to lawyer up once denied.
Can sleep apnea be secondary to hypertension
All CPAP machines have been recalled known to cause caner,so now what do we do?
I have everything in the book I need help as to what to start with
I get 60% disability rating for BP and lower back AND OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA issues upon discharge from active duty. I was given 10% for my BP. In November 2019, it was found that my BP stayed at 210/100 without proper meds. Furthermore, it was found that my cortisol level was so high that my meds had to be changed to get my cortisol levels down. I had to got thru surgery on my adrenal glands which was discovered at that time that my glands were producing too much cortisol and the other hormone that the adrenal gland produces (can’t remember the hormone name). When I went to review my medical record for the purpose of getting a higher disability rating, I was denied an increase for the BP. My rating did increase due to my back problem to 80%. My question is: should I be able to get a higher rating for my BP due to these hormone imbalances?
Hi Randy, we are sorry to hear that you have been struggling. Your question has been submitted to our attorney to hopefully be answered in an upcoming video. Please stay tuned! Thank you!
My husband went in Service as hypertension, What now? Plus later on he had heart problem, congestion heart failure, stints,blockages,open heart,blockages in his legs , amputated (both)
That's what I want to know
I developed hypertension in the military while pregnant with my child. It continued after childbirth and still continues to this day. At first, when being seen at the VA (everytime) my pressure would be taken, it would be high and the nurse would manipulate my arm to get my pressure down. Finally, my PCP at the VA prescribed medication for the high blood pressure. However, I am rated zero or not service connected (cant remember, must recheck my rating)
Well as you stated it was developed due to pregnancy and not due to service related conditions. You pretty much answered your own question. Just because it happened while you were in the service doesn’t mean it happened DUE to service.
Read what she wrote she said it continue after pregnancy that mean it is rateable.
@@kee-slim1513 almost anything that started during service should be service connected.
Thanks. I did a claim for sleep apnea and they connected to my burn pit registry and it wasn’t service connected. I will try to get a buddy statement.
How to get into using your program
I'm suffering from so many health issues. Most of these issues resulted from stress beginning when I was in the service. Although I was on active duty for a year, I was forced out because of a race problem on board the ship. I am a black man who grew up in the deep south, so to speak. Well, I wanted to go to officer candidate school. As a result, I was chosen by the Division officers to become a Yeoman of the division. Soon after, I came under attack by a 1st Class Petty officer and a Chief Petty Officer. Together they made false reports against me, and I was forced to leave the Navy prematurely. Ever since that time, I have had to live my life in the shadows, so to speak. I did receive a general discharge, however, but I developed a host of problems that began when I was in the military to cope. Now, I have all kinds of health problems being over 65, which began during my time in the service. My doctor reminds that I should apply for disability. I've been ashamed to get help all of my life. I only recently learned that a book was written about the "racial" problems on the ship at the time. I remember hearing then that special meetings were going on onshore. It's a fact that many African American sailors were discharged at the same time. At 19, I simply had no understanding of what I could do. Any advice for me would be welcomed. Thank you.
man thats a difficult situation
Well I have both but I didn't know its a benefit that I can get but I'm at 100% already so can I still get that benefit
But it's not one of my claims that got me to 100% can I still claim it
Please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 to see if we may be able to assist. Thank you.
I have COPD as a Primary and Sleep apnea as a secondary. Connecting it to a primary was necessary to claim sleep apnea as a secondary.
I have linked more information about COPD here that you may find helpful www.hillandponton.com/copd-disability-rating/
@@HillAndPonton I don't need any information. I was just stating what is necessary to service connect sleep aptnia. It has to be a secondary to an already established SC illness.
I had Va. To do Audit on me, back in 1982 Va Hospital had me do C-P both of my knees , Doctor told told them I refuse bend down , I told him that hurt bend my. So Va. gave 0%. In 1989 file a claim. Got denied again. So 2004. I have knee replacement on my right knee so increase my rate 30% . But they didn't give me no retro pay. In 2016 I have knee replacement surgery on my Left knee. But no retro pay. I apply for audit but they said that I my claim would not warrent back pay. Can you please tell me why not?, If you find good VSO and feel comfortable. Then let them representative. In time you can tell if they are good look at the review. Because that will help you.
Thank you for your question. We have submitted it to hopefully be answered by Mr. Hill in an upcoming video. Please keep tuning in!
Thank You also the effective date, it put claim in 1982 should that be the date ?
@@Delivery111 I will add this to your question!
Is this an American or Canadian site?
We are Americans.
If you have a sleep study done by a specialist and were prescribed CPap (and currently using) and high blood pressure meds, do you still have to have an ADDITIONAL sleep study done via the VA?
Hi Tiffany, the answer is that it would depend on many variables. For help regarding this and the information you would need for a claim, it would be best to consult a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group. We do have a great blog on this subject that I have linked here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
@@HillAndPonton I have a family member who was diagnosed with hypertension during the military, but sleep apnea not until 25 years later. He filed a claim for sleep apnea from awarded depression, but it was denied. He had a buddy letter speaking of the symptoms you mentioned, and that it started in the military, but still his claim was denied. Should he resubmit for the claim of only sleep apnea as the main claim, then hypertension as secondary? His doctor is confused how to link the sleep apnea to his active duty time. Thanks.
my issue is service connection to sleep apnea after I was diagnosed and prescribed a machine...
We have a great written blog with a lot of information about getting service connection for Sleep Apnea. I have linked it here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/ We hope you will find this helpful!
I am an Air National Guard member. I have been on three Active Duty deployments to the Middle East. I am also a DoD Federal Civil Service employee, FERS, who is employed at my military unit. I wear the military uniform every day although I work as a civilian during the week and then a Traditional Guard member just one weekend a month. I am required to wear the military uniform, OCP's, because my two jobs are tied together. In addition, I joined the U.S. Army straight out of high school and served a two year contract (two year contracts were being offered in 1984). As Air National Guard members who only serve one weekend a month in a Title 32 status we are told that we can only make disability claims when on Active Duty status, Title 10. Do you know if this is true? I'm asking because I suffer from sleep apnea. My wife will often wake me up because I am not breathing, or at the least not breathing properly. So, as I understand it, I can only have a sleep test performed when I am on Active Duty orders, Title 10, not Title 32. We are told that this is to ensure that the issue will be covered as a disability related to service. The problem is that I may not serve again under Title 10 status, at least not long enough to afford me time to schedule a sleep study. Do you know if Guard members are required to be serving under Title 10 status in order to have service related issues diagnosed? Thanks so much for your help. I just came across your channel and will be following up on your provided website. I appreciate what you are doing for service members, and how clear and concise you are in providing the information. Very well done!
Thank you for sharing and watching! We are sorry, but in regards to our question, it would be best to contact the VA directly for the most accurate information. We hope that you are able to get your answer and wish you the best.
DC, I had that issue as well but ran across this code and was able to use it to get a 20% rating on a knee injury that happened on a UTA weekend. 38 USC 101(24)(C)(i)
inactive duty training
(23) The term “inactive duty training” means- (A) duty (other than full-time duty) prescribed for Reserves (including commissioned officers of the Reserve Corps 1 of the Public Health Service) by the Secretary concerned under section 206 of title 37 or any other provision of law; (B) special additional duties authorized for Reserves (including commissioned officers of the Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service) by an authority designated by the Secretary concerned and performed by them on a voluntary basis in connection with the prescribed training or maintenance activities of the units to which they are assigned; and (C) training (other than active duty for training) by a member of, or applicant for membership (as defined in section 8140(g) of title 5 ) in, the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps prescribed under chapter 103 of title 10. In the case of a member of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard of any State, such term means duty (other than full-time duty) under sections 316, 502, 503, 504, or 505 of title 32, or the prior corresponding provisions of law. Such term does not include (i) work or study performed in connection with correspondence courses, (ii) attendance at an educational institution in an inactive status, or (iii) duty performed as a temporary member of the Coast Guard Reserve. Hope this helps.
I've been service connected for diabetes and hypertension. I was denied for OSA secondary to PTSD. Now that I'm service connected for hypertension should I put in a supplemental claim for OSA?
Hey did you ever try this? I was wondering the same thing.
Can sleep apnea be a secondary condition to hypertension for VA compensation? I have hypertension service connected.
Sounds like it may be worth looking into Richard. Here's our article on filing claims for secondary conditions: www.hillandponton.com/filing-secondary-conditions/
Thank you . I suffer from this
I have a 60% service connected rating for hypertension and heart disease. Since receiving that rating I have had multiple hospitalizations for heart disease and had 3 cardiac stents placed. The VA has diagnosed me with "severe" complex sleep apnea which requires BIPAP ( a more sophisticated CPAP) and supplemental oxygen at night. Also, my PCP has recently given me a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. I am on 19 scheduled medications from VA doctors for hypertension, angina, and diabetes. Do you think I qualify for more than a 60% rating?
I received 80% for diabetes alone
You can not be on 19 medications for these diseases. If so remove 10 and you will probably get better.
If you are still seeking VA disability compensation contact the the Friedman Law firm in Birmingham Alabama and tell them I referred you. Very professional reputable Law Firm.
If you were in RVN, within 12 miles of the RVN coast, or any location listed in the PACT Act for exposure to herbicides, DMII is a presumptive.
Ive had a cpap for years , but didn't get a sleep study done in the service. I had it done after getting out so I have no idea if I can get it service connected
Thank you for watching! I have linked our written blog about getting service connected for Sleep Apnea here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
You have described my problems to a T. I was just diagnosed w/ severe obstructive sleep apnea. Have developed High BP and diabetes over the last few years.
Hi David, we are sorry to hear that you have been struggling. We hope that you are able to find the assistance you need.
So even if it is not in your records the buddy statements will have an impact?
I have SA, VA even issued a Cpap, but has twice denied me for SA. I just got awarded 60% for Quality of Life claim. Can I NOW get them to add SA to my rating?
What about Vietnam Vets for Burn Permits?
How about exposure to JP-5 , diabetes , sleep apnea and hypertension and fibromyalgia neuropathy in the legs , hello getting nonservice connected I can’t seem to get service connection I was standing in JP-5 for 3 1/2 hours i’m bored in a ship
Hi Richard, we are sorry to hear about the hardships you have been facing. Please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 to see if we may be able to assist. Thank you!
Can I file a claim for high blood pressure and AFIB??
Have you seen any ratings decisions linking Obstructive Sleep Apnea with PTSD?
Hi Donald, there is a known connection between PTSD and Sleep Apnea. Out website states "Research has shown that their veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, may be at risk for sleep apnea. There are factors that overlap in both disorders which affect and aggravate each other." I have linked more information here as well www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
@@HillAndPonton Thank you. I was in a VA research study in 2013. Started CPAP-APAP with great improvement in PTSD symptoms. But I haven't refiled a Claim yet, since I was denied PTSD in 2004 and hate dredging up Vietnam.
I do have Hypertension service connected and Sleep Apnea not service connected for 6 years already, could I file sleep apnea for secondary condition related to my high blood pressure? Thank you...
Great Video. Thank you for all the knowledge you give us. However, one subject puzzles me. If I was diagnosed with sleep apnea while I was Active Duty. Also, If I conducted a sleep study , and issued a CPAP Machine while I was on Active Duty, will I still need to have an Event in Service like a Car Wreck to file a direct claim ? I have all the documents proving this. The only thing is that I do not have an event to name the cause. I just conducted a sleep study, got diagnosed, and issued a CPAP all while I was on Active Duty. Is that enough for a Direct-Service Claim ?
Wish they would do a study on us veterans that were stationed in Bosnia during IFOR and SFOR
Is there any information about Hypersomnia and post concussion syndrome?
These are very good suggestions for a video or blog. I will pass this information to the marketing team for future reference. Thank you!
That post concussion syndrome, You should ask your lawyers to look into testing you for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) I was a loader on a Big gun, and i just found out about it. It is caused by explosions primarily , but other things as well, like blows to the head.
I claimed sleep apnea secondary to ptsd and was denied. Later I was awarded for diabetes and hypertension. I sent my sleep apnea claim to a law judge. What are my chances of winning my sleep apnea claim?
How about anxiety and sleep apnea. What’s the nexus:
I've been diagnosed with sleep apnea for many years thru the VA but they denied my claim. I was deployed to Sinai Egypt during the Gulf War for 8 months January 1991 thru August 1991. What can I do to get my claim approved. I've been using a CPAP for many years thru the VA
I have severe sleep apnea and hypertension which I think has led to AFib I recently had a heart ablation because of the AFib. My BP is medically controlled but still is usually over 140/80 sometimes as high as 160+/89. Does the medical assistance to control BP have a bearing on the VA consideration
Are there different ratings for Central Sleep Apnea with an ASV?
Hi Aaron, yes, it is possible to be rated for Central Sleep Apnea. Just as a Vet might be rated for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, they can also be rated for Central Sleep Apnea with 0, 30, 50, or 100 percent rating depending on the severity of their condition. Thank you for watching!
i need clarification on how to read the CFR for hypertension in the M21-1III_iv_4_SecE the va defines hypertension as "Hypertension means elevated diastolic blood pressure is predominantly 90mm or greater." Isolated systolic hypertension: means that systolic blood pressure is predominantly 160mm or greater with a diastolic blood pressure of less than 90mm. but in the 38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, Note 1. under 7101 Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension): it uses "Diastolic" instead of "Systolic" to define hypertension and isolated hypertension is this an error? if this is not an error how can one be following both the definitions of "hypertension" and "isolated systolic hypertension" in M21-1III_iv_4_SecE and also following the two criteria in the 38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, Note 1. , if we were to use the criteria in the M21-1III_iv_4_SecE isolated systolic hypertension then "diastolic Blood Pressure" should be "LESS" than 90MM but if we compare that to "38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, Note 1." then "DIASTOLIC" needs to be "predominantly 100 or more" which would take us out of the original defintion of hypertension, i believe the use of "diastolic" in the note 1 is an error, could anyone clarify this???
Funny you say spouse. I knew a Marine in Florida who came up to me all excited and said "MY WIFE GOT ME MY 100%." I asked how. He said she was cleaning out the closet and found old photos that she had taken when the gov sent them into a theater where they weren't but were in a hospital that they never were in and she had brought a camera and they had kept the photos. Furthermore, she helped his buddies also get their claims started.
I would love for someone to explain the burn pits? I was stationed at Balad, Iraq for a year and the VA will not acknowledge I have issues from this.
in the days 1963 to 1983 there was no information on this ....no evident in my health record....what do you suggest....
Hi Anton, it may still be possible to be rated for Sleep Apnea if it is connected to your service. We have a great written blog with more information that I have linked here www.hillandponton.com/how-the-va-rates-obstructive-sleep-apnea/
I did get sleep study, positive for obstructive sleep apnea, positive for central sleep apnea, im with CPAP, but guess what? I filed a claim for that and they didn't rate me , i'm rated 60% for other conditions, very hard to win cases even with proof.
Hi Nelson, if your claim is open and you would like to appeal, please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000. Thank you.
It's not difficult to show you have sleep apnea. The difficult part is tying it to military service without some documentation dated while you were active duty to back it up.
What is the compensation ratingif your average is 160/90 ?
10% because the first 10% comes from your systolic pressure which is the top number and it has to be 160+
Unbelievable Interview with Natalia Jofre it was like a light bulb was turned on because my snoring is out of control i wake up coughing almost every night. Had the 24 hr test done but not with the V.A im taking b.p med Nifedipen 30 MG. I'm now 10% for skin condition. 21years in the Army Retired. Do I have a case?
Need the help