Frequently Missed Claimable Conditions
Overview
Veterans often leave compensation on the table by not claiming conditions they acquired or aggravated during service. Many ratable disabilities fly under the radar because they seem minor or unrelated to military duty.
Pro Tip: VA does not proactively identify what you should claim. You must advocate for yourself. If something causes pain, difficulty, or impacts your quality of life, investigate whether it qualifies for compensation. This list provides a starting point for your research.
Conditions Veterans Frequently Miss
| Condition | Notes |
|---|---|
| Acne/Chloracne | Skin condition, particularly from toxic exposure |
| Allergic Rhinitis | Chronic nasal congestion and irritation |
| Skin Allergies | Hives, eczema, dermatitis |
| Arthritis | Degenerative joint disease affecting any joint |
| Asthma | Respiratory condition causing breathing difficulty |
| Carpal Tunnel | Wrist nerve compression from repetitive motion |
| Dry Eye Syndrome | Insufficient tear production affecting vision |
| Endometriosis | Uterine tissue growth outside the uterus |
| Erectile Dysfunction | Sexual dysfunction, frequently secondary to other conditions |
| Female Sexual Arousal Disorder | Persistent arousal difficulties |
| Flat Feet (Pes Planus) | Collapsed arches causing foot problems |
| GERD | Chronic acid reflux and heartburn |
| Hemorrhoids | Rectal vascular condition |
| Herpes | Service-acquired viral infection |
| High Blood Pressure | Chronic hypertension |
| Ingrown Toenails | Recurring nail conditions |
| Insomnia | Sleep difficulties, often secondary to mental health |
| IBS | Digestive disorder affecting bowel function |
| Mental Health | Anxiety, depression, PTSD, MST-related conditions |
| Migraines/Headaches | Chronic head pain, often TBI-related or secondary |
| Pseudofolliculitis Barbae | Razor bumps and shaving-related skin irritation |
| Radiculopathy | Nerve pain radiating to limbs from spine issues |
| Ovarian/Uterine Removal | Surgical removal of reproductive organs |
| Rhinitis | Nasal inflammation and irritation |
| Scars | Visible marks from wounds or surgeries |
| Sleep Apnea | Breathing interruptions during sleep |
| Tachycardia | Rapid or irregular heartbeat |
| TBI Residuals | Lasting effects from head trauma |
| TMJ Disorder | Jaw joint pain and dysfunction |
| Tinnitus | Persistent ringing or noise in ears |
Secondary Condition Opportunities
Disabilities caused by already service-connected conditions qualify for separate ratings. These secondary relationships significantly expand compensation potential.
Frequent Secondary Connections
- PTSD/Mental Health: Depression, anxiety disorders, sleep problems, sexual dysfunction, substance use disorders
- Diabetes: Nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney problems, erectile dysfunction, vision deterioration
- Spinal Conditions: Radiating nerve pain, sciatica, leg weakness, altered gait complications
- Sleep Apnea: High blood pressure, cardiac issues, fatigue-related conditions
- Knee/Lower Extremity: Hip problems, back issues from compensating gait, opposite knee deterioration
Key Considerations
- Dental Care Access: While routine dental conditions like fillings do not qualify for disability compensation, veterans can obtain dental care through separate VA dental benefit programs
- Documentation Matters: Even seemingly minor in-service issues should be documented for potential future claims
- No Condition Too Minor: If your daily functioning suffers, the condition may warrant compensation
Additional Resources
- Filing a VA Disability Claim
- Master Condition List (3,000+ claimable conditions)
- Rating Schedule Index
- Federal Benefits by Rating