Veterans file thousands of disability claims each year for conditions caused or worsened by their military service. Today we’re breaking down the 10 most common VA disability claims, why they happen, and how to link them to your service.
Number 1: Tinnitus. One of the most common claims veterans file for is tinnitus—a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears often caused by repeated exposure to loud noises like gunfire, explosions, aircraft engines, and heavy machinery. Even if you weren’t issued hearing protection, service records documenting high-noise environments can help support your claim and connect your tinnitus to service.
Number 2: Hearing Loss. Just like tinnitus, hearing loss is extremely common among veterans due to prolonged exposure to high-decibel sounds. Many veterans don’t realize their hearing has declined gradually over time. Audiology tests and military occupational records showing exposure to noise can help establish service connection. What starts as a subtle loss can progress into significant impairment, but the good news is that it can often be directly linked to service, especially for veterans who worked in high-noise occupations like infantry, artillery, or aviation.
Number 3: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is often linked to combat experiences, but it can also stem from non-combat trauma such as military sexual assault or severe accidents. Flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety tied to service-related events are not just normal reactions to stress—they are signs of PTSD. VA mental health evaluations and personal statements can help prove your case, but it’s important to connect these symptoms to your service since the VA requires clear evidence to establish the link.
Number 4: Scars. Many veterans suffer injuries that leave permanent scars, whether from combat wounds, burns, or even surgical procedures related to service-connected injuries. Photos, medical records detailing the original injury, and documentation from military doctors can all strengthen your claim.
Number 5: Knee Conditions. The physical demands of service—running, jumping, and carrying heavy gear—put significant strain on the knees. Over time, this can lead to joint damage, arthritis, or chronic pain. Service records noting injuries, physical therapy notes, and VA examinations can all support a knee condition claim.
Number 6: Back and Neck Pain. Heavy lifting, high-impact activities, and long hours carrying gear often result in back and neck injuries. Even if pain develops gradually, linking it to duties like airborne operations or long deployments can establish service connection.
Number 7: Migraines. Many veterans develop migraines due to head trauma, stress, or exposure to hazardous substances. Blast injuries, concussions, or prolonged high-stress environments can all be triggers. Medical records, headache diaries, and doctor’s opinions connecting migraines to service can help strengthen a claim.
Number 8: Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve. Nerve damage often results from combat injuries, back conditions, or repetitive strain. Shooting pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs may be linked to service duties that strain the lower back or spine. Veterans who carried heavy gear, ran long distances, or jumped from aircraft are at higher risk. Medical records, military treatment history, and imaging results are key to linking sciatic nerve paralysis to service.
Number 9: Sleep Apnea. This condition is common among veterans, especially those with service-connected injuries, stress, or weight gain from physical limitations. It can also be tied to PTSD or other mental health conditions since stress and anxiety often disrupt sleep. Sleep studies, medical evaluations, and doctor’s notes can show severity and connection to service. With proper documentation, veterans can successfully claim benefits for sleep apnea and improve overall health.
Number 10: Hypertension. High blood pressure is frequently linked to the stress of military life, PTSD, or exposure to environmental toxins. The VA even considers hypertension a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange, meaning it can be automatically service-connected under certain conditions.
These are just some of the most common VA disability claims. If you’re experiencing any of these conditions, you may be eligible for benefits—even if you’ve never filed a claim before. Not sure where to start? Veterans Guide can help you navigate the claims process and gather the evidence you need to win your case. Visit veteransguide.org today or call us at 888-982-1009 to get started.
