Tinnitus is the most common disability that Veterans suffer from as a result of their military service. Over one million Veterans receive VA disability benefits for this condition. Veterans develop this serious medical condition at a higher rate than the general public due to their exposure to loud noises, such as gunfire, machinery, aircrafts, and much more.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking, or hissing noise in the ears. It can be caused by inner ear hair cell damage, age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, earwax buildup, and ear bone changes, as well as a variety of other less common causes. There are two types of tinnitus:
- Subjective tinnitus. This is the most common type of tinnitus, and the noise is only heard by the sufferer.
- Objective tinnitus. If a person suffers from objective tinnitus, the noises can be heard by a doctor during an examination. This is a rare form of tinnitus and is often caused by a blood vessel problem, inner ear bone condition, or muscle contractions.
While tinnitus can be annoying for some sufferers, it can cause long-term complications that can affect a Veteran’s quality of life. Some of these problems include:
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Difficulty sleeping
- Concentration and memory problems
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Depression
What Should You Do If You Suffer From Tinnitus?
If your tinnitus was caused by your military service, you should file a claim for VA disability benefits. You will need to prove that this medical condition was directly connected to your military service to be eligible for benefits. Some of the evidence you will need to establish this includes:
- Current diagnosis of tinnitus by your doctor
- Nexus letter that links your tinnitus diagnosis to your service in the military
- Evidence of how your tinnitus was caused, how it affects you and your quality of life, and whether it has worsened over time
How Is Tinnitus Rated?
Unlike other medical conditions, the maximum rating that you can receive for tinnitus is 10 percent. This is true no matter how bad the condition is or whether you suffer it in one or both ears. However, if you have also suffered hearing loss due to your military service, you may be entitled to an additional disability rating for this condition, which will increase the amount of monthly disability benefits that you receive.
Contact a VA Disability Lawyer Today
Do you suffer from tinnitus caused by your service in the Armed Forces? Our experienced VA disability attorneys are here to help you obtain the benefits that you deserve. Call our Roswell office or start a live chat to schedule your free consultation today to learn more about how we can assist you and your right to VA disability benefits.
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