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The GIANT List of Service-Connected VA Disabilities You Can Apply For as a Veteran

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Are you a veteran seeking information about the wide range of medical conditions that may qualify you for VA disability benefits?

Look no further! In this comprehensive article, we present an extensive list of disability conditions that can make you eligible for VA disability compensation.

Please Note

If you’re seeking information on a specific condition, they’re sorted by body system here. Use CTRL + F to search quickly through the extensive list. If a condition is missing or unlinked, please click “Ask A Question” to inform us. We aim to support our veteran community comprehensively and appreciate your help in enhancing this resource.

This guide illuminates the wide range of conditions that could qualify veterans for VA benefits and healthcare.

Beyond well-known issues like PTSD and combat injuries, the VA covers a diverse array of conditions, from blood disorders to chronic illnesses, affecting work and daily life.

We’ll dive into these lesser-known but significant disorders, highlighting the importance of recognizing all qualifying conditions for rightful benefits.

This list is being constantly updated, so please note that it is not exhaustive and will continue to grow.

Musculoskeletal System

The musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, enables movement, support, and organ protection.

It’s essential for physical activity, strength, and balance, with bones providing structure, joints enabling motion, and muscles facilitating movement through contraction.

Despite its resilience, this system can be compromised by injury, wear, or disease, resulting in pain and reduced mobility.

Common musculoskeletal disorders include fractures, sprains, strains, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, and back pain.

Mental Health Disorders

Veterans face unique mental health challenges due to combat, trauma, and the stresses of military life.

Common conditions include PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, with symptoms ranging from intrusive thoughts and excessive worry to sadness and avoidance behaviors.

The VA offers mental health treatment and disability benefits, emphasizing the importance of timely support.

Increased awareness and expanded services aim to improve veterans’ mental well-being, with various organizations contributing to advocacy and support efforts.

Neurological Disorders

Neurological disorders, affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, can significantly impact cognitive function, motor skills, and sensory perception.

Veterans may develop these conditions due to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), environmental exposures, or service-connected factors.

Conditions like TBIs, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS can alter daily life and work ability.

The VA provides disability compensation, medical care, and rehabilitation for affected veterans, offering specialized clinics and programs to improve their quality of life.

  • Bell’s Palsy
  • Abscess
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • Chronic Organic Brain Syndrome (COBS)
  • Dementia
  • Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)
  • Epilepsy
  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Memory Loss
  • Heat Stroke
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Insomnia
  • Stroke
  • Hemorrhage
  • Thrombosis
  • Schwannoma
  • Caisson’s Disease 

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Respiratory System

The respiratory system, crucial for oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange, includes the lungs, trachea, bronchi, and diaphragm, facilitating breathing.

The lungs’ alveoli are key in gas exchange, allowing oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion.

Disorders like COPD, asthma, and pneumonia affect breathing and lung function, influenced by environmental hazards, smoking, and genetics.

Veterans may develop respiratory conditions from service-related exposures or injuries.

Throat

  • Vincent’s Stomatitis
  • Strep Throat
  • Laryngitis
  • Esophageal Condition
  • Bulbar Palsy

General ENT

Ears/Hearing

Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system, encompassing the heart, blood vessels, and blood, circulates blood, oxygen, and nutrients in the body, supporting oxygenation, nutrient delivery, waste removal, and temperature regulation.

The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to organs and returns oxygen-depleted blood for reoxygenation.

Disorders like coronary artery disease, hypertension, and arrhythmias impact this system, causing symptoms like chest pain and fatigue.

Veterans may develop cardiovascular issues due to genetics, lifestyle, or service-related exposures, with the VA offering benefits and care for affected individuals.

Heart Disease/Disorders

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) 

Heart Failure

Heart Cancers

  • Cardiac Tumors

Arteries and Veins

  • Abnormal Mitral Valve
  • Adhesions
  • Atherosclerotic Peripheral Vascular Disease 
  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
  • Clots
  • Cyst/Benign Growth
  • Embolism/Infarction
  • Hemorrhage
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Valvular Heart Disease
  • Varicose Veins

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastrointestinal disorders, impacting the digestive system including organs like the stomach and intestines, can cause symptoms ranging from abdominal pain to nausea.

These conditions, including GERD, peptic ulcers, and liver diseases, can stem from genetic factors, diet, or autoimmune reactions.

Veterans may develop these due to service exposures or stress, with the VA offering medical care, dietary support, and disability benefits to manage and treat these conditions effectively.

Stomach/Intestines

  • Stomach Cancer
  • Diverticulitis
  • Adhesions
  • Gastritis
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Gastrointestinal Problems
  • Intestinal Condition
  • Ulcer Condition
  • Cyst/Benign Growth

Colon/Bowels

  • Dysentery 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Amebiasis
  • Adhesions
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Colitis
  • Colon Syndrome, Irritable 
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Cholecystitis

Liver/Bile Ducts/Pancreas

  • Liver Abscess 
  • Cirrhosis of Liver
  • Hepatitis 
  • Cyst/Benign Growth
  • Hepatocarcinoma
  • Hepatoma
  • Cholangitis 
  • Diabetes

Gallbladder

  • Gallbladder Cancer
  • Abscess
  • Cholecystitis
  • Gallstones

Endocrine System Disorders

The endocrine system, comprising glands like the thyroid and pancreas, regulates bodily functions through hormones.

Disorders, such as diabetes and thyroid issues, stem from hormonal imbalances, affecting metabolism, growth, and stress response.

Veterans may develop these disorders due to service exposures or stress, with the VA offering evaluations, treatments, and disability benefits for conditions like diabetes and adrenal gland disorders, aiding in symptom management and quality of life improvement.

  • Acromegaly
  • Addison’s Disease
  • Cushing’s Syndrome
  • Cyst
  • Endocrinopathy
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Thyroid Nodular Disease

Cancer

Cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells and can affect any body part, leading to various health challenges.

Types like lung, breast, and skin cancer each require specific treatments.

Veterans may face increased risks from service-related exposures.

The VA offers comprehensive cancer care, including evaluations, treatments like chemotherapy, and disability benefits for service-connected cases.

Skin Cancers

  • Melanocarcinoma
  • Basaloma
  • Carcinoma
  • Adenocarcinoma
  • Epithelioma 

ENT Cancers

  • Tracheal Cancer
  • Pharynx Cancer
  • Pharyngolaryngeal
  • Nasopharyngeal Cancer
  • Larynx Cancer
  • Esophageal Cancer
  • Melano Epithelioma
  • Throat Cancer

Digestive Cancers

  • Colon Cancer
  • Gallbladder Cancer
  • Pancreatic Cancer
  • Intestinal Cancer
  • Gastrointestinal Cancer
  • Stomach Cancer
  • Leiomyoblastoma
  • Cholangiocarcinoma

Respiratory Cancers

  • Bronchus Cancer
  • Lung Cancer
  • Respiratory Cancer

Dental/Oral

  • Salivary Gland Cancer
  • Cheek Cancer
  • Lip Cancer
  • Tongue Cancer
  • Gum Cancer

Cardiovascular

Neurological

  • Brain Tumors
  • Spinal Cord Tumors
  • Nerve Tumors
  • Schwannoma

Musculoskeletal

  • Bone Cancer
  • Sarcoma

Lymphatic

  • Lymphosarcoma
  • Lymphosarcoma
  • Lymphoma
  • Lymphogranulomatosis
  • Myeloma
  • Lymph Node Cancer
  • Leukemia
  • Chloroma

Genitourinary

  • Kidney Cancer
  • Rectum Cancer
  • Renal Pelves
  • Urethra Cancer
  • Urinary Bladder Cancer
  • Urinary Tract Cancer

Reproductive

  • Breast Cancer
  • Ovarian Cancer
  • Uterine Cancer
  • Prostate Cancer
  • Testicular Cancer

Skin Disorders

Skin disorders, affecting the body’s largest organ, can present as rashes, itching, or lesions, stemming from genetics, allergies, or environmental exposures.

Common conditions include eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancers, potentially impacting comfort and self-esteem.

Veterans may develop skin issues due to service-related exposures.

The VA offers comprehensive care, including dermatology services and treatments, to manage symptoms and improve life quality.

Veterans with service-connected skin conditions may also qualify for disability compensation.

Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases, caused by organisms like bacteria and viruses, can spread through contact or vectors, leading to symptoms or severe health issues.

Examples include flu, tuberculosis, and COVID-19.

Veterans may encounter these diseases due to service exposures.

The VA supports affected veterans with medical care, specialist access, and preventive measures.

Service-connected infectious diseases may also qualify for VA disability compensation.

  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Anemia
  • Cyst/Benign Growth
  • Sickle Cell Anemia
  • Erythematosus Lupus
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Lupus
  • Thromboangiitis 
  • Thrombocytopenia
  • Thrombosis, Brain
  • Mycosis Fungoides
  • Myasthenia Gravis

Genitourinary System Disorders

Genitourinary disorders impact the urinary and reproductive systems, including conditions like UTIs, kidney stones, and erectile dysfunction.

Factors like infections and hormonal imbalances can cause symptoms affecting urinary and sexual functions.

Veterans may develop these issues due to service exposures.

The VA offers comprehensive care, including urology services and treatments, to manage symptoms and improve life quality.

Veterans with service-connected genitourinary conditions may also qualify for disability compensation.

Hematological Disorders

Hematological disorders affect blood and its components, leading to issues like anemia, low platelet count, and blood cancers.

Factors causing these disorders include genetic mutations and exposure to toxins.

Veterans may develop these conditions from service-related exposures.

The VA supports affected veterans with evaluations, treatments like transfusions and stem cell transplantation, and specialized hematology care.

Service-connected blood disorders may qualify for VA disability compensation.

  • Anemia
  • Thrombocytopenia
  • Leukopenia
  • Polycythemia
  • Hemophilia
  • Von Willebrand Disease
  • Hemolytic disorders
  • Myelodysplastic syndromes
  • Hemochromatosis
  • Coagulation disorders
  • Thalassemia
  • Essential thrombocythemia
  • Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
  • Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)
  • Multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells)

Miscellaneous Conditions

In addition to the categories previously discussed, other medical conditions might also make veterans eligible for VA disability benefits.

These include chronic pain, autoimmune diseases like lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, migraines, certain respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders, unlisted neurological conditions, and additional mental health issues.

Eligibility hinges on service connection, condition severity, and personal circumstances.

Conditions impacting daily life and work may qualify for benefits.

Veterans should reference VA rating criteria, supply detailed medical evidence, and consult with Veterans Service Officers or legal experts in veterans’ affairs for assistance in the claims process, ensuring access to deserved benefits.

  • Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs)
  • Blood clotting disorders
  • Hematological cancers
  • Bone marrow disorders
  • Blood-transfusion related conditions
  • Hematological complications
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic Pain Syndrome 

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