Tinnitus – How Do I Prove Something Only I Can Hear?

Tinnitus – How Do I Prove Something Only I Can Hear?

Tinnitus is the number-one disability among Veterans and affects nearly 15% of American adults. VA ratings for this condition have increased significantly according to the 2019 research conducted by the South Texas VA Health Care System and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. The sound can be ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking, hissing, or humming and pitch anywhere from a low roar to a high squeal. One of the major reasons tinnitus is so common in veterans is because it is commonly caused by exposure to loud noises (such as heavy equipment & firearms). Another reason it is so widespread in the veteran’s community is that this condition is also a symptom of common injuries because of service; for example, head or neck trauma, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), depression, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, and fibromyalgia.

This means that if you experienced any of the above conditions because of your time in service, then this condition is likely secondarily service-connected.

How do I prove something only I can hear?

Because usually only the person impacted can hear the sound, the VA requires hearing and tests to confirm the diagnosis. Next, you should write your statement explaining the nexus between your condition and when in service you experienced the loud noise or another condition of which tinnitus is a symptom. Finally, gather and include documents like your medical records and a written physician’s opinion to support your claim.

Compensation

If you have regular or recurrent tinnitus 10% is given—currently, 10% warrants $140.05 a month.  Any additional hearing loss or other hearing conditions can be separately rated and combined.

Because this is the most commonly claimed condition, veterans often start their claim journey by claiming tinnitus first.  Don’t forget to consider all other service-connected conditions too!

Veterans Help Group Is Here For You

If you don’t get the expected rating or need additional assistance with your claims, call or chat with us online.  Veterans Help Group has been supporting veterans since 1995, Let our experienced advocates assist you with your claim. Call our team at 855-855-8992 or click here to contact us now!