Are you a veteran dealing with hypertension? Or maybe you’ve already received a disability rating for hypertension and are wondering what other conditions might be connected to it? In this video, we’ll break down secondary conditions related to hypertension and how they could qualify you for additional benefits
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common issue among veterans due to the stress or environmental factors during service. But did you know that hypertension can lead to other serious medical issues? These are called secondary conditions.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common secondary conditions linked to hypertension.
First up, heart disease. High blood pressure forces your heart to work harder, causing the heart muscles to weaken or thicken, which can ultimately lead to heart disease.
Next is stroke. Hypertension narrows and hardens blood vessels, increasing the risk of a stroke due to blocked or ruptured blood vessels.
Vascular dementia is a cognitive decline that happens when hypertension damages blood vessels in the brain, disrupting normal blood flow and leading to memory loss.”
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by hypertension as well. The condition can harden arteries, restricting blood flow to the reproductive organs, making it difficult to maintain an erection.”
Hypertension is also linked to certain liver diseases, possibly due to increased artery stiffness or alcohol toxicity.
Finally, atherosclerosis, where arteries become narrowed due to fatty buildup. Hypertension can worsen this condition, increasing the risk of blockages and ruptures.
So, how do you qualify for additional benefits? You’ll need to prove a connection between your secondary condition and your service-connected hypertension.
Step 1: You must have a VA disability rating for your hypertension. Step 2: You need a formal diagnosis for your secondary condition. And Step 3: Prove the link between the two conditions.
A nexus letter, written by a medical professional, will be key. It should connect your secondary condition to your hypertension, helping you strengthen your claim.
If you think you may be eligible for a secondary condition related to hypertension, now’s the time to act. Submit the necessary documents, including medical records and a nexus letter, to support your claim. You may be entitled to additional benefits, and we’re here to help guide you through the process.
Thanks for watching! If you found this video helpful, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with fellow veterans who could benefit. Stay strong, and take care!
