Some of the most difficult service-related injuries are not always visible. One of the more sensitive conditions Veterans face after serving in the military is erectile dysfunction (ED). While it may be difficult to talk about, ED is more common than many people realize, especially among Veterans dealing with physical injuries, mental health challenges, or long-term effects from medications.
If you are struggling with ED, you might be surprised to learn that the VA does offer disability benefits in certain circumstances. ED is not usually rated on its own, but it may qualify as a secondary service-connected condition. At Fight4Vets, we are dedicated to helping Veterans understand their rights and acquire the benefits that you deserve.
Erectile dysfunction by itself typically does not receive a direct rating from the VA. However, you can receive a rating if it is secondary to another service-connected disability. That includes both physical conditions and mental health conditions, as well as side effects from medications that were prescribed to treat those conditions.
Veterans are at an increased risk of ED due to a variety of service-related factors. Some of the most common include:
Mental health conditions, as well as the medications that treat these conditions, can significantly affect sexual function. Conditions that cause high blood pressure can interfere with the nerve and blood vessel function, leading to ED. Finally, injuries obtained during service, especially those involving the spine or pelvic area, can lead to damaged nerves and blood vessels.
Although the VA does not usually assign a percentage-based disability rating for ED, Veterans can qualify for Special Monthly Compensation under Category K. This adds a monthly amount to your VA disability compensation. To receive benefits, you will need to prove a primary service-connected condition, such as PTSD, have a diagnosis of ED, and a medical nexus. A medical nexus is evidence that your ED is linked to your service-connected condition or its treatment. Overall, a strong nexus letter from a healthcare professional can make a significant difference in proving your claim.
You have served our country, and now, we are here to serve you. If you believe that your ED is related to your time in service, we are here to help gather evidence and file a strong VA claim. At Fight4Vets, our experienced legal team is committed to helping Veterans secure the benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a free disability case evaluation, and be sure to check out our VA benefits calculator to learn more about what you could receive.
