If you are a Veteran living with PTSD, you might also be struggling with frequent, intense migraines. If this is the case, know that you are not alone. Many Veterans experience migraines, but few realize that migraines can be linked to PTSD. This connection may qualify you for additional VA benefits. If your migraines are making a negative impact on your life, having them recognized as a secondary condition could increase your disability rating. Ultimately, a higher disability rating can result in greater compensation, which will be beneficial to your daily life.
Post-traumatic stress disorder, known as PTSD, is a mental health condition that can develop from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Many Veterans with PTSD struggle with symptoms such as anxiety, heightened stress, and flashbacks. Meanwhile, migraines are intense headaches that can lead to throbbing pain, light and sound sensitivity, and nausea. While both PTSD and migraines are separate conditions, they are commonly linked for Veterans; but how are they connected?
Stress and anxiety are two prevalent components of PTSD, which are also common migraine triggers. Over time, experiencing these symptoms can make daily tasks, including jobs, difficult to complete for Veterans. This is why the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes migraines as a secondary condition to PTSD, which allows eligibility for increased Veteran disability benefits.
VA disability benefits are available for eligible Veterans who are suffering with service-connected conditions that have an impact on his or her daily lives. The benefits provide monthly compensation, healthcare, and other resources to improve quality of life. We recognize that the VA system can be confusing, and it is full of complex rules about what qualifies for compensation. Getting migraines recognized as a secondary condition can increase your disability rating, which will result in higher monthly compensation and better access to needed medical care.
This is important because migraines are not just a dull headache, but rather they can be debilitating and lead to life-altering consequences, such as loss of work. By securing the benefits for having migraines recognized as a secondary condition, you have the opportunity to reduce financial stress, gain access to treatment options, and improve overall health and well-being.
When filing for migraines as a secondary condition to PTSD, it is important that you present strong evidence to have a higher chance of your claim being approved. You can secure evidence by collecting medical records of visits that document your migraines and how they impact your life. It is also useful to keep a journal to track the frequency and duration of your migraines. Additionally, gathering statements from family members or friends can provide insight on how migraines have negatively impacted your life. The more detailed and consistent the evidence, the better chance you have of getting your claim approved by the VA.
As the largest Veterans law firm in the country, Fight4Vets recognizes how confusing the VA claims process can be, especially when you are trying to prove a secondary condition. Having an experienced attorney by your side can increase your chances of a successful claim. We can fight for you and offer the resources you need to secure your claim, so schedule your free consultation now.
