How to Pass Your Migraine C&P Exams & VA ACE Exams the First Time

Before diving into the specifics, let’s explore how the VA rates migraines briefly:

• VA uses a rating chart with four percentages: 0%, 10%, 30%, and 50%.
• The coveted 50% rating is granted for migraines causing “very frequent, completely prostrating and prolonged attacks.”

Here are some basics:

1. Frequency Varies: The frequency of migraines can vary significantly from person to person. Some veterans may experience migraines infrequently, while others may have them more frequently.
2. Personal Variation: Normal frequency depends on your individual health and medical history. What might be normal for one person may not be for another.
3. Service Connection: When assessing whether your migraines are service-connected, the VA considers if your military service may have caused or exacerbated the condition. It’s not solely about the number of migraines but also the circumstances surrounding them.
4. Establishing Patterns: It can be helpful to establish patterns in your migraine occurrences. Keeping a record of when they happen, their severity, and any potential triggers can assist in demonstrating a service connection.

 Here are the key points you should consider:

• Attendance is Essential: Missing the initial C&P exam can lead to claim denial. Reschedule promptly if unable to attend.
• Accurate Symptom Description: Veterans should accurately describe the symptoms of their most severe migraine attacks. Neither downplaying nor exaggerating helps their case.
• Personal Statements Matter: Crafting a detailed statement outlining migraine frequency, specific symptoms, and resultant limitations is invaluable. Gathering statements from family, friends, and co-workers who witness migraine attacks can provide essential support.
• The Role of Medical Documentation: Even if the C&P examiner’s evaluation falls short, thorough medical documentation from personal doctors can substantiate the claim’s severity.

Here are some tips on how to do it:

• Be Specific: Describe your symptoms in detail. Don’t just say you have a “headache.” Instead, explain the type of pain (throbbing, pounding), where it’s located, and its intensity.
• Frequency and Duration: Share how often you experience migraines and how long they typically last. Mention any variations in duration or intensity.
• Triggers: If you’ve identified triggers for your migraines, such as specific foods, stress, or environmental factors, make sure to mention them.
• Functional Impairments: Describe how migraines impact your daily life. Do they make it difficult to work, perform routine tasks, or engage in social activities? Provide examples of limitations.
• Medications and Treatments: Mention any medications or treatments you use to manage your migraines and their effectiveness. Be honest about whether they provide relief or not.

Here’s how to maintain an effective record:

• Consistency is Key: Record each migraine episode consistently. Include the date, time, duration, and severity of each attack.
• Triggers: Note any potential triggers or patterns you observe, such as certain foods, stressors, or environmental factors.
• Medications: Document the medications or treatments you use to alleviate migraines and their effectiveness.
• Functional Impact: Describe how migraines affect your ability to work, perform daily tasks, and engage in social activities. Be specific about any limitations.
• Witness Statements: If possible, have family members, friends, or co-workers provide statements describing what they observe when you experience a migraine attack.

Here’s how to obtain one:

• Seek a Specialist: Consult a medical specialist, preferably a neurologist or headache specialist, who can evaluate your migraines and establish a clear link to your military service.
• Request a Nexus Letter: Ask the specialist to provide a nexus letter that outlines the connection between your migraines and your military service. The letter should detail how your service may have caused or aggravated your migraines.
• Include Specifics: Ensure the nexus letter contains specific information about your diagnosis, treatment, and the impact of migraines on your daily life.

Here’s some suggestions from our attorneys on your best bets to provide the best proof:

• Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant medical records, including your migraine log, specialist evaluations, and any witness statements.
• Consult an Attorney: Consider seeking assistance from a VA disability attorney who specializes in migraine-related claims. They can provide valuable guidance throughout the process.
• Be Persistent: The VA may request additional documentation or examinations. Be persistent in providing the required information promptly.
• Appeal if Necessary: If your claim is initially denied, don’t lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision and present additional evidence.

Here’s a quick overview:

• Aid and Attendance (A&A): This benefit is designed for veterans who require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or eating due to the debilitating effects of migraines. It provides additional financial support to help cover the costs of caregiving.
• Housebound: Veterans who are substantially confined to their homes due to severe migraines may be eligible for the Housebound benefit, which also provides increased financial assistance.

Here’s a brief overview:

• Eligibility: To qualify for TDIU, veterans must demonstrate that their migraines and other service-connected conditions render them unable to engage in substantially gainful employment.
• Financial Relief: TDIU provides essential financial support to veterans who cannot work due to the debilitating effects of migraines, helping them maintain a stable quality of life.