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Skin Conditions Connected to the Gulf War
When you think about disabilities that may qualify as a veteran or VA disability benefits, skin conditions probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind. However, some skin conditions can be painful and otherwise debilitating. And, some skin conditions go hand-in-hand with other symptoms.
While any veteran might potentially qualify for VA disability for a skin condition if they can show that the condition is service-connected, Gulf War veterans have been hit especially hard.
Gulf War Syndrome
Many Gulf War veterans are known to suffer from a range of symptoms that have not yet been medically connected to a particular cause or underlying condition. However, these symptoms are common enough among those who served in the Persian Gulf that the VA presumes “chronic unexplained symptoms that persist for more than six months” are service-connected for Gulf War veterans. While symptoms vary, unexplained skin rashes are common.
Other Skin Conditions That May Be Service-Connected
Other common skin conditions that may be service-connected for Gulf War veterans include:
- Chronic dermatitis
- Chloracne
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Scars and burns
Skin conditions may also be rated under different categories, including skin cancer and fungal or bacterial infections impacting the skin. Chloracne is presumed service-connected for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange.
How are Skin Conditions Rated?
The VA disability rating assigned for a skin condition varies depending on the condition and the extent of the symptoms or limitations. For example, eczema and psoriasis are rated under the general rating scale for skin conditions, allowing for VA disability ratings of 0%, 10%, 30%, or 60%. One key factor in assigning a disability rating is the percentage of the body or visible portion of the body covered by the lesions.
Scarring is rated based on the number, size, and depth of the scars, along with other factors such as where on the body they are located. A VA disability rating of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or 80% may be assigned for scarring. There are also specific skin conditions that may be rated as high as 100%.
Get Help from a Seasoned VA Disability Benefits Advocate
If you’re a Gulf War veteran suffering from a skin condition, you may be unsure of whether and how you may qualify for VA disability benefits. Our experienced advocates can help you determine whether your condition may be presumed service-connected, and if not can guide you through the process of establishing a service connection. Your advocate can also help you determine whether you have other conditions–related or not–that may also qualify for a disability rating.
To learn more about how we can help, call 855-855-8992 right now or click here now.
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