I have sleep apnea I also have a cpa machine I also am service connected for PTSD I didn't know I could get service connected for sleep apnea I was also exposed to Agent orange I am service connected for heart disease
I have sleep apnea that was diagnosed in 2005 with a sleep study. I filed a claim for sleep apnea in Nov 2022 secondary to allergic Rhinitis. I also included a nexus letter from my civilian Dr. I have service connected allergic Rhinitis and 30% asthma. do I have a chance of getting a decision soon.
I was diagnosed with OSA and VA service secondary connected to it to the current service connected Residuals of Malignant Mesothelioma (60%). Why would the list it as Sleep Apnea and not Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Absolutely. I am non military but worked on Navy vessels for many years. Extreme sleep apnea and insurance is very hard to get coverage for a machine and surely no disability pay. But if a vet it's called service related and huge monthly disability payout. The doctors are telling me it's not service or job related but a physical disorder. I work with many who bragggg they get enough disability to pay their mortgage with leftover money. I can barely pay for my monthly CPAC fees with insurance and NO disability. Social Security says it is not job related but a physical disability not the tax payers problem unless your a vet. WTF ????????????????
4:55. This (“exposures”) is good news for me. I was exposed to CARC paint (inhaled) and am suffering from symptoms of Sinusitis, rhinitis, lung nodules, and bibasilar actelesis, all of which have been diagnosed. I go for my sleep study next month and I’m certain I have SA, as I have all the symptoms. If I get the diagnosis and script for a CPAP, I thought I would have to make SA a secondary, but it sounds like I can make it a service-connect injury that surfaced after discharge. Am I correct? Thank you.
Everything that was said in this video is what i said during my medical interview. Said my sleep apnea is a result from my ptsd ,back injury and ankle injury. All which i already have a rating for. But my claim was denied. The blamed it all on my weight. But all my other injuries are the reason i can't keep a regular workout routine. I now get my cpap equipment thru the va. Hopefully that will help when i refile a claim.
I have sleep apnea and it was diagnosed by the VA I've never tried to file for it as a disability but I have to have a CPAP machine and I have all the symptoms you're talking about in this video thank you
If you didn’t have reported sleep issues and or did a sleep study while on AD. It will be very difficult getting it direct service connected. The VA will most likely say you gained weight. Which vet doesn’t gain weight after service? Especially with multiple disabilities? The other way will be getting secondary service connected to another connected disability. Heard vets do it SA secondary PTSD.
Diagnosed with enlarged thyroid gland in in service which causes weight gain diabetes hypertension surgery for thyroid removal . Also diagnosed after service sleep apnea with sleep study given cpap. Va also sleep study and give cpap again later.
I asked the VA for a sleep study (i've been out for 20 yrs) and it was approved. I was diagnosed with extreme obstructive sleep apnea by a UTMB cardiologist (i was sent to UTMB, University of Texas Medical Branch), the VA reviewed the opinion and issued me the cpap machine. Then I got a nexus letter from my private Dr. He also reviewed the sleep study, my service history and also a letter from my ex wife describing how my sleep pattern changed after my first deployment. I submitted the sleep study, the nexus letter and letter from my ex wife and was awarded 50% for sleep anea. I can not stress how important the nexus letter and the buddy letter are when you file for sleep apnea.
Great Video. Thank you for all the knowledge you give us. However, one subject puzzles me. If I was diagnosed with sleep apnea while I was Active Duty. Also, If I conducted a sleep study , and issued a CPAP Machine while I was on Active Duty, will I still need to have an Event in Service like a Car Wreck to file a direct claim ? I have all the documents proving this. The only thing is that I do not have an event to name the cause. I just conducted a sleep study, got diagnosed, and issued a CPAP all while I was on Active Duty. Is that enough for a Direct-Service Claim ?
I've gotten everything service-connected and approved, but my sleep apnea. They deferred my sleep apnea decision, and that's the only thing keeping me from hitting 100%, and the VA even prescribed me a CPAP. Submitting appeal and keeping my fingers crossed.
So that they can denied you I was diagnosed for sleep apnea in Jan 2023 and I just got my denial today which is crazy so I am about to go hard at the VA plus I work for these bastards crazy
Great video!!! I have been diagnosed with PTSD, and OSA with the use of CPAP (prescribed by VA doctors). Still no rating from the VA...just how long should this process take? Thank you in advance for your time.
Damn, it's starting to look like this is the norm for serving. Everyone's stories are similar to mine. Diagnosed by va, got cpap, no rating, and they say it isn't service connected. Something's not adding up, too many people have the same exact symptoms for them to ignore this.
Thats why I got my sleep study N filed within 12 months Ive heard how hard it is N too many stories. Thanks to guys like u its possible for people like me to learn.
Yeah, I had a sleep study done in Jan 2023 and it came back that I have severe sleep apnea with blockage and recommended that I get a CPAC machine the C&P examiner put in my file less that likey it happened or is service connected They deferred it and now I am awaiting on the rater to take a look at it I don’t know how the exam can show that I require a CPAC machine and the VES examiner says less than likey🤷🏾♂️
I asked a question in another video and this video will tie into this new question. 2 of my service connected disabilities knee & back prevented me from exercising and I've been overweight since getting out and I have sleep apnea with a Cpap machine issued. I'm currently 60% because of added migraines due to getting meningitis during service because while being stationed at a boot camp location a recruit was not treated correctly and continued to allow to train and a few people were infected and that recruit died due to the illness and I've suffered with migraines since even losing employment and getting social security benefits because of it. Do you guys take clients in NM? Thank you
I have 30% service connected for bronchiolar asthma. Now I have had two sleep studies performed at the Mayo Clinic and I been diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea. I’m waiting on my interview at the VA. Any advice or anything I need to bring or mention?
Has there ever been a nexus between apnea and service aboard submarines? Considering the lower O2 content in the boat, approximately 19%, as well as the aerosols (oils and amines) in the atmosphere, and pressure differentials these conditions are less than desirable for long term exposure.
I have had a sleep study at the VA and my condition is confirmed, but it wasn't diagnosed when on active duty because I never realized what it was. My x-wife can confirm incidents of snoring, shaking, and gasping for air when on active duty. Also, she can confirm my falling forward in church hitting my head on a pew and falling asleep behind the wheel and going off the road in Germany. Is it even possible to receive a disability rating? Also, I've had chronic foot conditions, but all I could attribute it to was doing physical training in combat boots before we started using tennis shoes.
I was tested for sleep apnea and the VA doctor told me that I am server sleep apnea. It took 3 years and one day I got a letter from the DAV stating that the results should be 50%. About a month later I got notified from the VA for 20%. Is there anything that I can do to see about getting it higher???
I was diagnosed with sleep apnea in 2015 and was giving a CPAP machine. I also filled for disability for sleep apnea but was denied.and now they new thing (pack act, ) i also should say im already 100% p&t
I was in a military hospital with a co-worker and when I woke up, he mention my snoring was really bad. Later I have him write a letter on my behalf and was dined, and the rater said it was because he was my buddy??? Since then I have had several sleep studies does and even surgery which did not fix my apnea. Now you say my family, coworkers and even friends can write on my behalf.
@@brothadre76 it’s just a letter explaining your disability is connected to service. But like I’m telling people you only should think about it once you get denied because to get denied your C&P doctor had to say either : 1. your disability is not related to service, 2. you didn’t have an event in service or 3. you don’t have a diagnosis. You will have to read your decision letter to see which on is the reason.
I have sleep apnea verified by a VA sleep study. I have a CPAP machine issued by the VA. Applied for compensation and was denied. Even though the denial mentioned that I had reported sleeping problems on active duty!
@@bendubois2371 this is why I personally don’t submit a claim without a prior nexus letter. If they deny you can ask for HLR and with the letter you can claim Equipoise. To each it’s own but I think nexus letters are a must.
The VA sent me to a Sleep Study and I wake up or Stop breathing over 100 times a night. The VA sent me to a Sleep Apnea around 10 years and said yes you have it and gave me a Cpap machine. I have been service connected for my lungs and we are doing a secondary Cpap due to Sever Asthma .
I starting my journey. I had a sleep study and stopped breathing 639 times and my longest time not breathing was 87 seconds. Had my sleep study last night. Results are not in yet. Never smoked don't drink not fat.
I’am service connected 2012 had a congestive heart failure my civilian heart specialist ran a angiogram a- fib , VA diagnosed me after sleep test with severe case of sleep apnea in 2011, denied my claim in, 2018 diagnosed with PTSD, Claim awarded, 2002 back injury & spine awarded 40% to 60% in 2012 , in 2018 (90% but I felt underrated to date 2022 Don’t understand the fuzzy math rating so I requested & asking for copies threw the Texas V.A. Representative to get me my Military records , rating sheet , Claims record’s files for my own personal files I’am interested in my files and what they did for me !
I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea several years ago. I wasn't diagnosed while in Service. I had the PPP surgery to fix my breathing but it was only partially successful. I can't tolerate the CPAP. I am not Obese as I am 5'9" and weigh 150 lbs. Following the sleep apnea diagnosis, I have developed diabetes and hypertension. Do you think I may be able to get VA benefits?
I have very severe sleep apnea. The va put me on medicine for my ptsd but we never used that word due to the stigma it held at the time. I am very confident that this is due to my deployment in 2005 to Kuwait. I was subject to the oil fires and burn pits near the base. Looking back on the whole situation it now makes sense . what are my next steps. I am on a cpap.
I've been fighting this since the first gulf war. 4 years prior to my retirement I had surgery to correct my Sleep APNEA. I've been using a CPAP to sleep for 23 years. Yet I'm still not receiving disability benefits from the VA for it.
What about medications that increase the severity of sleep apnea. For example, a veteran is prescribed gabapentin for their service connected disability and develops sleep apnea due to the use of gabapentin.
I am in the National Guard right now. However, I was on Active Duty a year ago During this time, the VA diagnosed me with Sleep Apnea. I did a sleep study and was issued a CPAP machine while I was on Active Duty too. I filed a claim in March and I am waiting to receive a rating. Does my Circumstances mandate a 50% award ??
What if I had sleep insomnia before at 30% but then they combined it with my depression for 70%? Will it be hard to get a good rating since I previously had some sleep problems? The Va did say I have obstructive sleep apnea and gave me the cpap machine to sleep but now I’m just waiting for a c an p for sleep apnea. I guess my question is since I had sleep problems before will it be easier to get a good rating for this?
Question: I am a disabled Vet (Go Army). I have a CPAP machine long after my Army days. Can i file a claim? From my understanding, the CPAP can be used in place of a nexus letter....is that correct?
I had a strange case. I had a referral for a sleep study put in by my primary care doctor prior to retirement but was unable to get a sleep study till after I was already retired. Got the sleep study put in due to some other issues I was having and could have been related. Now I submitted for sleep apnea, but I'm afraid that it will come back as after service not during, just due to the backlog of studies needing to be done and the earliest appointment I could get. Any suggestions?
Denied claim for sleep apnea even with my wife s letter and a diagnosis by sleep doctor what’s my next move, I was diagnosed while I was active duty with numerous time of headaches what about nexus letter?
I'm waiting on the call for my C&P exam. Is it an automatic 50% just if you need a CPAP or if you use one and it doesn't fix it? I saw the latter online.
I have been tested for sleep apnea, I was issued a CPAP machine, and now I have a fatty liver do to the CPAP machine and now I’m being treated for that. So I’ve never received a rating for sleep apnea. I was told they don’t rate for sleep apnea any more! Is this not True?
Kia Ora from NZ my husband has all the symptoms he been on the capp machine but got claustrophobic and couldnt carry on VA wont accept options so we are stuck!
I had a sleep study done at the request of the VA ( I didn't even file for it ), and the report said that I had both types of apnea. I have back conditions that is already rated, can this be the cause of my apnea? Or do I just file a claim for the apnea?
Hey Dwayne, I don’t know if you answer questions. If not reply just say so. Question with background: Will getting an expert nexus letter with full review of my STR, a substantial investment, sent to VA on my pending OSA 2nd to lumbar spine and hips, with obesity as intermediary be likely to tip scales to equipoise. I had 2 total hip replacement in 2017 were rated 10% per hip in 2021,at which time increase for back from 10 to 20%. My PCP medical letter supports my claim on an at least as likely as not basis. Peeking in my heathy vet, I see tracks of my ongoing sleep apnea claim. VA covering their bases with 2 separate medical opinion letters, posturing case with both letters in response to internal request from the deniers. They are inserting their response with “less-than-likelies” language opining my jaw advancement as treatment for mandibular AP Deficiency. News to me! I thought it was just the final phase of my orthodontics done for correction of my Class 2 Bite. VA says it was due to airway structures. Was diagnosed w/ OSA in 2010. Since online claim says I can still add evidence, so what would the result be of me submitting an Uber-strong nexus letter before the reach denial phase? Your thoughts based on your past experiences as a previous VA Rater? Thanks.
I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea by the VA via sleep study provided by them. They prescribed a CPAP which I have not been able to get used to. They in turn prescribed a mouth appliance which was sort of working, except that it caused my jaw to not go back to normal after a month and a half so I stopped using. While on the mouth appliance, the VA had me do a second sleep study and found that my sleep apnea got worse, another reason I stopped wearing the appliance. Still after finding the results of the second study, VA stated I wasn't eligible for compensation. However, I didn't officially submit a claim. The VA scheduled me for a third party exam suggested by a VA examiner. At the exam they simply asked the history of my condition and didn't perform any tests. What should I do?
Sleep apnea diagnosed 2014 also have ASBESTOSIS with lung disease diagnosed 1993 30 % DISABILITY it's complicated. ( help) also have other health issues number appeals turned down???
How do I prove that my sleep apnea is service connected I was in the Army from 1986-1993 when they didn't even know what sleep apnea was after AIT I had roommates put socks in my mouth and other harassment because of my snoring but then in 2010 the VA gave me the test and I was told that I was really bad and was placed on a cpap machine
I have it, had surgerys for it, never filed for it. But i was diagnosed with tinnitus with injury to my shoulder. Service connected. How do I file .. ?
A va doctor from the sleep study lab told me I stop breathing 20times threw da night during my home sleep study I already get 70% for ptsd wat would I have after I get approved I just had a phone interview with qtc services for my claim I have in and I got a feeling I got approved they had my test and the lady seem like it was a open and shut case
Hi what if I got a referral during demob. ? I have symptoms of OSA provider wrote referral “due to OSA adult.”I am waiting for VA to schedule sleep medicine at home or record which will be after my active duty orders expire.
I did not file for sleep apnea but the VA insisted that I do the study? I have filed for restless leg syndrome which a VA doctor has diagnosed me to have. Are they related?
I am at 20% for bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus. I have also been diagnosed with sleep apnea by the VA. Could I receive compensation for that also? I do have a CPAP from the VA
Recent research by professional civilian doctors show that there is a connection somehow between sleep apnea and tinnitus, but they are sure how. I just started reading about it, so there might be more information out there.
How can you prove sleep apnea in military from the 60s since there were only one thousand cases in the USA on c pap machines and cases on arena back then.?
I was denied sleep apnea rating because it says it's hereditary. VA said that I mentioned during my sleep study that my father and uncle has one and been using CPAP. Is there anything that can still be done? I want to make an appeal if possible. Thanks
I did a sleep study test through the VA via third party and I never got the results back. But the VA denied me saying it wasn’t service connected. So I had to look up the results thru the third party company and it said my sleep apnea was an OSA severe. And I was never ask if I wanted a cpap machine. Any advice on how to proceed. All this was done last year or two ago
I had congestive heart failure in 2012 my heart specialist diagnosed my issues he is a Civilian ! Being a disabled veteran in 2013 went to a Lubbock VA outpatient center Doctor to find out what happened & why I had congestive heart failure & my wife was with me doctor he ask me if I had trouble breathing or sleeping we both said yes he sent me to the VA Hospital in Amarillo Texas they fitted me with wrist band program for a home sleep test five days later I mailed the band back in 2 days later called me and my wife to come in I had a severe case of sleep apnea was fitted for a CPAP machine & felt like it was why I had congestive heart failure ! I filed a claim they the VA denied my claim said we didn’t give you sleep apnea ! I’am stuck have 90% but I feel like I was unrated !
I am on 50% for MST. I feel a bit resentful of veterans who file for a rating just to get more money. There are more of them than you know. I have my arms, my legs, my brain works and I can see and hear. When I go to the VA hospital I see men and women with no arms, legs, cannot walk, some have TBIs and some have facial disfigurement to the point they are blind. I would love to have a higher rating but I think there are people who deserve it more.
Look if you think this way that’s your opinion & I respect you for that ! After congestive heart failure & being diagnosed with a severe case of sleep apnea, this what found out I was diabetic 2 , high blood pressure , symptoms of glaucoma , two full knee replacements, sciatica nerve damage in both of my thighs, PTSD, anxiety, depression, being treated for that ! Work in a therapy pool 3 days a-week my point is have my hurts are inside & out ! 🇺🇸 US Navy served during the Vietnam conflict & the 5 day conflict between Israel and Arab states my ship took off 34 dead body’s the wounded to our sick bay when the USS Liberty was attacked ! 🇺🇸
The VA diagnosed me with OSA most likely caused by obesity. I injured my knees in jump school, (30%, 10% for knees). I started to slowly gain weight until I was barred from reenlisting due to my weight. I served for 9 years was planning to make a career out of the army. Due to the fact I was injured to a point that I was barred from reenlisting would I have a case to get SC for my OSA?
Obesity is an “intermediate” disability if due to active duty incident. This is, you began to experiment weight problems during active duty due to an accident that forced tou to a sedentary life. If you have the active duty record to prove it, any health condition related to obesity will be service-connected. Examples are OSA. venous insufficiency, low back pain, type-2 diabetes, depression, etc.
@@leguleyo69 I messed up my knees in jump school and over time in the army I had trouble with PT. I ended up being barred from reenlistment because of my weight.
With the recent VA presumption for Sinusitis and Rhinitis and the amount of vets that have sleep apnea because of breathing issues. Do you think the VA will ever list sleep apnea as a presumption claim for vets that served in the gulf region?
Probably not because they would have so many more claims now that they would have to grant that were previously denied. But it would be nice if they did since so many of us Vets suffer from it.
Hi, Chisholm Chisholm & Kirkpatrick LTD I am currently receiving service connection disability for Asthma, however I do have a VA diagnosis for sleep apnea. I was prescribed a CPAC machine from the VA. The VA declined my sleep apnea claim because I was in the National Guard when I was diagnosed. What should I do? What advice can you give me. I do snore in my sleep as well as experience lack of sleep.
Did you ever get you service connection, Gerald? I hope so. Interested to hear your outcome and the path you took. I was diagnosed while still in the National Guard too, CPAP proscribed with 50% rating for OSA, but no service connection. How did you fair? I'm still working on mine.
I smashed my face in service and they fixed my nose in service is that an in service event? And I SNORE loudly and have forever (since leaving the service in 1973 and I’m normal weight not overweight), just never realized that that’s what sleep apnea was. Also I’m an insomniac but the service said I don’t have a service connection, are these two related?
If you have at least 50% blockage in each passage or completely blocked in one, get service for your nose you can possibly secondary you SA to that. Good Luck!
have a sleep study done by the VA, i have sleep apnea and am scheduled for a cpap, I am not overweight do not smoke, have 50% rating for ptsd go for my c&p exam next week, I will probably get denied the va loves to deny vets
I'm service connect for PTSD and I was dienosed with sleep apnea many times in service and at Va hospital in Indiana and at the VA hospital in the Philippines last dienosed was three months ago I use a sleep apnea machine given to me by VA hospital in Indianapolis Indiana I have asked for the results many times still have not received the results need advice
I had 3 sleep apnea tests at Kelsey Seybold .Doc said I have severe sleep apnea . so I go to the VA and they gave another sleep test .i fifiled But was turned down by the VA ,HELP D clinic
In you were mobilized to the Gulf combat area Kuwait, Iraq, and Syria for example . You can win sinusitis claim an then win the sleep apnea claim secondary to sinusitis. Sinussitis is easy to claim due to high exposure to dust and bad-quality air.
I was medical boarded out in 2005. The VA had me go through a sleep study in 2011 and it shows that I have Obstructive sleep apnea. As part of my service connected list, Panic Disorder diagnosis for 10% initial was raised to 30% after 3rd party evaluation. Since my diagnosis of OSA, I have had panic attacks while using the apnea mask due to trauma during deployment in Korea in 2001. My wife had also observed that I had increased snoring issues and would at times stop breathing a few seconds at a time after returning from Korea. When this was brought to the attention of the VA in 2011, that is when a sleep study was ordered. Does this mean that the 2011 diagnosis for OSA and the panic attacks while using the apnea mask can be tied together to get the OSA added to my disability? Thanks in advance.
@@drew7014 if your just going to give an unproductive and glib response then why did you reply at all. Especially when it was not directed at you in the first place. Your not a moderator so stop spamming with useless replies. Blocked.
Any doctor can diagnose you, it just comes down to you being able to prove it's tied to your military service, which a nexus letter or IMO can help do.
I was informed if you had a private medical exam…you must advise the VA not schedule you for a C&P exam, because you had a private medical exam. I had a private exam and they noted not to schedule a C&P exam on the claim form and the VA denied it. I spoke to an actual VA rater and was informed the rater incorrectly denied it and I should have appealed it. I did not know to appeal it since a private exam was conducted. The VA rater informed me to mention the private exam on the claim form and not to schedule the C&P exam. I was also informed I can call it in to the 1-800 nbr not to schedule a C&P exam due to completing a private medical exam where your doctor completed your DBQ.
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Should I get a lawyer instead of doing it myself.
I have sleep apnea I also have a cpa machine I also am service connected for PTSD I didn't know I could get service connected for sleep apnea I was also exposed to Agent orange I am service connected for heart disease
@@laplaca57 ⁰⁰
@@patrickodonovan8364 ppl
I have sleep apnea that was diagnosed in 2005 with a sleep study. I filed a claim for sleep apnea in Nov 2022 secondary to allergic Rhinitis. I also included a nexus letter from my civilian Dr. I have service connected allergic Rhinitis and 30% asthma. do I have a chance of getting a decision soon.
Thank you for this overview. As a Post Service Office this is helpful to me.
I am going to try to connect my sleep apnea to my service in a few months I have a CAPC machine and have done a sleep study this a great information.
Omg! I’m crying, everything she said (intro) I’m experiencing. And I did experienced while in service but had no clue there was a reason.
You guys rock!! You won my case!! I will forever be grateful! Sleep is serious it affects every aspect of your life!
I was diagnosed with OSA and VA service secondary connected to it to the current service connected Residuals of Malignant Mesothelioma (60%). Why would the list it as Sleep Apnea and not Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
We are honored to assist you!
Absolutely. I am non military but worked on Navy vessels for many years. Extreme sleep apnea and insurance is very hard to get coverage for a machine and surely no disability pay. But if a vet it's called service related and huge monthly disability payout. The doctors are telling me it's not service or job related but a physical disorder. I work with many who bragggg they get enough disability to pay their mortgage with leftover money. I can barely pay for my monthly CPAC fees with insurance and NO disability. Social Security says it is not job related but a physical disability not the tax payers problem unless your a vet. WTF ????????????????
How much did they charge you?
4:55. This (“exposures”) is good news for me. I was exposed to CARC paint (inhaled) and am suffering from symptoms of Sinusitis, rhinitis, lung nodules, and bibasilar actelesis, all of which have been diagnosed. I go for my sleep study next month and I’m certain I have SA, as I have all the symptoms. If I get the diagnosis and script for a CPAP, I thought I would have to make SA a secondary, but it sounds like I can make it a service-connect injury that surfaced after discharge. Am I correct? Thank you.
Everything that was said in this video is what i said during my medical interview. Said my sleep apnea is a result from my ptsd ,back injury and ankle injury. All which i already have a rating for. But my claim was denied. The blamed it all on my weight. But all my other injuries are the reason i can't keep a regular workout routine. I now get my cpap equipment thru the va. Hopefully that will help when i refile a claim.
I have sleep apnea and it was diagnosed by the VA I've never tried to file for it as a disability but I have to have a CPAP machine and I have all the symptoms you're talking about in this video thank you
If you didn’t have reported sleep issues and or did a sleep study while on AD. It will be very difficult getting it direct service connected. The VA will most likely say you gained weight. Which vet doesn’t gain weight after service? Especially with multiple disabilities? The other way will be getting secondary service connected to another connected disability. Heard vets do it SA secondary PTSD.
Aggravation to respiratory
Diagnosed with enlarged thyroid gland in in service which causes weight gain diabetes hypertension surgery for thyroid removal . Also diagnosed after service sleep apnea with sleep study given cpap. Va also sleep study and give cpap again later.
great info. as Always
I asked the VA for a sleep study (i've been out for 20 yrs) and it was approved. I was diagnosed with extreme obstructive sleep apnea by a UTMB cardiologist (i was sent to UTMB, University of Texas Medical Branch), the VA reviewed the opinion and issued me the cpap machine. Then I got a nexus letter from my private Dr. He also reviewed the sleep study, my service history and also a letter from my ex wife describing how my sleep pattern changed after my first deployment. I submitted the sleep study, the nexus letter and letter from my ex wife and was awarded 50% for sleep anea. I can not stress how important the nexus letter and the buddy letter are when you file for sleep apnea.
Great Video. Thank you for all the knowledge you give us. However, one subject puzzles me. If I was diagnosed with sleep apnea while I was Active Duty. Also, If I conducted a sleep study , and issued a CPAP Machine while I was on Active Duty, will I still need to have an Event in Service like a Car Wreck to file a direct claim ? I have all the documents proving this. The only thing is that I do not have an event to name the cause. I just conducted a sleep study, got diagnosed, and issued a CPAP all while I was on Active Duty. Is that enough for a Direct-Service Claim ?
I've gotten everything service-connected and approved, but my sleep apnea. They deferred my sleep apnea decision, and that's the only thing keeping me from hitting 100%, and the VA even prescribed me a CPAP. Submitting appeal and keeping my fingers crossed.
Any update?
Why did they defer you?
So that they can denied you I was diagnosed for sleep apnea in Jan 2023 and I just got my denial today which is crazy so I am about to go hard at the VA plus I work for these bastards crazy
@@Bainebroo no. Still waiting on the appeal with a VA Judge.
@@Olee_OTG because my “doctor” who wrote my Nexus Letter didn’t have enough “evidential credentials”.
That’s literally what the letter said.
Yes I needed place to sleeping and live so that I can have better things and great population to move together forever
Great video!!! I have been diagnosed with PTSD, and OSA with the use of CPAP (prescribed by VA doctors). Still no rating from the VA...just how long should this process take? Thank you in advance for your time.
Damn, it's starting to look like this is the norm for serving. Everyone's stories are similar to mine. Diagnosed by va, got cpap, no rating, and they say it isn't service connected. Something's not adding up, too many people have the same exact symptoms for them to ignore this.
Thats why I got my sleep study N filed within 12 months Ive heard how hard it is N too many stories. Thanks to guys like u its possible for people like me to learn.
Sleep apnea is a very common condition, even outside of veterans.
Yeah, I had a sleep study done in Jan 2023 and it came back that I have severe sleep apnea with blockage and recommended that I get a CPAC machine the C&P examiner put in my file less that likey it happened or is service connected They deferred it and now I am awaiting on the rater to take a look at it I don’t know how the exam can show that I require a CPAC machine and the VES examiner says less than likey🤷🏾♂️
Same here
Bpap from VA but no rating. I am afaid at age 78 to file as VA might reduce my 70%.
I got my diagnosis during Covid they came me a sleep study at home. First they said they couldn't tell if I had it but gave me a CPAP.
I asked a question in another video and this video will tie into this new question. 2 of my service connected disabilities knee & back prevented me from exercising and I've been overweight since getting out and I have sleep apnea with a Cpap machine issued. I'm currently 60% because of added migraines due to getting meningitis during service because while being stationed at a boot camp location a recruit was not treated correctly and continued to allow to train and a few people were infected and that recruit died due to the illness and I've suffered with migraines since even losing employment and getting social security benefits because of it. Do you guys take clients in NM? Thank you
This was excellent! Great breakdown of the obesity as an intermediary!
I have 30% service connected for bronchiolar asthma. Now I have had two sleep studies performed at the Mayo Clinic and I been diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea. I’m waiting on my interview at the VA. Any advice or anything I need to bring or mention?
Has there ever been a nexus between apnea and service aboard submarines? Considering the lower O2 content in the boat, approximately 19%, as well as the aerosols (oils and amines) in the atmosphere, and pressure differentials these conditions are less than desirable for long term exposure.
I have had a sleep study at the VA and my condition is confirmed, but it wasn't diagnosed when on active duty because I never realized what it was. My x-wife can confirm incidents of snoring, shaking, and gasping for air when on active duty. Also, she can confirm my falling forward in church hitting my head on a pew and falling asleep behind the wheel and going off the road in Germany. Is it even possible to receive a disability rating? Also, I've had chronic foot conditions, but all I could attribute it to was doing physical training in combat boots before we started using tennis shoes.
I wish my Ex-wife would help me lol
I was tested for sleep apnea and the VA doctor told me that I am server sleep apnea. It took 3 years and one day I got a letter from the DAV stating that the results should be 50%. About a month later I got notified from the VA for 20%. Is there anything that I can do to see about getting it higher???
I was diagnosed with sleep apnea in 2015 and was giving a CPAP machine. I also filled for disability for sleep apnea but was denied.and now they new thing (pack act, ) i also should say im already 100% p&t
I was in a military hospital with a co-worker and when I woke up, he mention my snoring was really bad. Later I have him write a letter on my behalf and was dined, and the rater said it was because he was my buddy??? Since then I have had several sleep studies does and even surgery which did not fix my apnea. Now you say my family, coworkers and even friends can write on my behalf.
No Nexus letter required if you go to a C&P exam. C&P exam in and of itself is a Nexus cause they’ll make the connection.
Yeah right. The exam will say you have sleep apnea period and the nexus letter will explain the connection.
So what exactly is a nexus? I've had a sleep study, I have a cpap machine, & I've been near the burn pit.
@@brothadre76 it’s just a letter explaining your disability is connected to service. But like I’m telling people you only should think about it once you get denied because to get denied your C&P doctor had to say either :
1. your disability is not related to service,
2. you didn’t have an event in service or 3. you don’t have a diagnosis.
You will have to read your decision letter to see which on is the reason.
I have sleep apnea verified by a VA sleep study. I have a CPAP machine issued by the VA. Applied for compensation and was denied. Even though the denial mentioned that I had reported sleeping problems on active duty!
@@bendubois2371 this is why I personally don’t submit a claim without a prior nexus letter. If they deny you can ask for HLR and with the letter you can claim Equipoise. To each it’s own but I think nexus letters are a must.
The VA sent me to a Sleep Study and I wake up or Stop breathing over 100 times a night.
The VA sent me to a Sleep Apnea around 10 years and said yes you have it and gave me a Cpap machine. I have been service connected for my lungs and we are doing a secondary Cpap due to Sever Asthma .
Same here....I stop breathing, wake up sweating very badly. To the point I would have to remove or change shirt & use towel over pillow.
I starting my journey. I had a sleep study and stopped breathing 639 times and my longest time not breathing was 87 seconds. Had my sleep study last night. Results are not in yet. Never smoked don't drink not fat.
Would you need the sleep apnea assessment for a claim, if it was the VA that diagnosed it?
Can OSA be secondary to Somatic symptom disorder??
I’am service connected 2012 had a congestive heart failure my civilian heart specialist ran a angiogram a- fib , VA diagnosed me after sleep test with severe case of sleep apnea in 2011, denied my claim in, 2018 diagnosed with PTSD, Claim awarded, 2002 back injury & spine awarded 40% to 60% in 2012 , in 2018 (90% but I felt underrated to date 2022 Don’t understand the fuzzy math rating so I requested & asking for copies threw the Texas V.A. Representative to get me my Military records , rating sheet , Claims record’s files for my own personal files I’am interested in my files and what they did for me !
I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea several years ago. I wasn't diagnosed while in Service. I had the PPP surgery to fix my breathing but it was only partially successful. I can't tolerate the CPAP.
I am not Obese as I am 5'9" and weigh 150 lbs. Following the sleep apnea diagnosis, I have developed diabetes and hypertension.
Do you think I may be able to get VA benefits?
Can overexposure to CS gasduring BT can link SA to service?
I got 30% ptsd. If I get diagnosed for sleep apnea from a sleep study and get a sleep device. Can u use your law firm to help me get a nexus?
Same here, SC secondary to LBP via intermediate connection to obesity denied 2nd time even with IMO nexus.😢
Dam I was looking into submitting this same claim.
Os "medical nexus" now the be all end all for service connection? I got to 90% without ever using a nexus.
Can chronic sinusitis be secondary to sleep apnea
I have very severe sleep apnea. The va put me on medicine for my ptsd but we never used that word due to the stigma it held at the time. I am very confident that this is due to my deployment in 2005 to Kuwait. I was subject to the oil fires and burn pits near the base. Looking back on the whole situation it now makes sense . what are my next steps. I am on a cpap.
I've been fighting this since the first gulf war. 4 years prior to my retirement I had surgery to correct my Sleep APNEA. I've been using a CPAP to sleep for 23 years. Yet I'm still not receiving disability benefits from the VA for it.
If a service connected condition interferes with sleep and you have severe apnea treatment (requiring cpap therapy) as rating.
What about medications that increase the severity of sleep apnea. For example, a veteran is prescribed gabapentin for their service connected disability and develops sleep apnea due to the use of gabapentin.
Any connection between agent orange and Central Sleep Apnea, I’m Viet Nam vet and have been diagnosed with severe central sleep apnea?
So if I had a neck injury in service and I have sleep apnea is that connected?
I am in the National Guard right now. However, I was on Active Duty a year ago
During this time, the VA diagnosed me with Sleep Apnea. I did a sleep study and was issued a CPAP machine while I was on Active Duty too. I filed a claim in March and I am waiting to receive a rating. Does my Circumstances mandate a 50% award ??
I’m 0% for sleep apnea and cpap is on back order will my claim get approved for increase even though machine is on back order?
The VA combined my Sleep Apnea and Asthma into one rating; which I think is so they don’t have to pay anything extra.
What was your nexus or connection?
What if I had sleep insomnia before at 30% but then they combined it with my depression for 70%? Will it be hard to get a good rating since I previously had some sleep problems? The Va did say I have obstructive sleep apnea and gave me the cpap machine to sleep but now I’m just waiting for a c an p for sleep apnea. I guess my question is since I had sleep problems before will it be easier to get a good rating for this?
Question: I am a disabled Vet (Go Army). I have a CPAP machine long after my Army days. Can i file a claim? From my understanding, the CPAP can be used in place of a nexus letter....is that correct?
My va dr diagnosed me to have restless leg syndrome & prescribed medication for that before i was diagnosed with the sleep apnea. Does that matter?
Would black mold in the dorm of Lackland cause sleep apnea?
I had a strange case. I had a referral for a sleep study put in by my primary care doctor prior to retirement but was unable to get a sleep study till after I was already retired. Got the sleep study put in due to some other issues I was having and could have been related. Now I submitted for sleep apnea, but I'm afraid that it will come back as after service not during, just due to the backlog of studies needing to be done and the earliest appointment I could get. Any suggestions?
Denied claim for sleep apnea even with my wife s letter and a diagnosis by sleep doctor what’s my next move, I was diagnosed while I was active duty with numerous time of headaches what about nexus letter?
Can the VA take away your rating if you have trouble sleeping with the CPAP? "Not using it"
I need a OSA nexus letter secondary to my septoplasty surgery. Does anyone know a doctor I can contact about this?
I was just turn down for Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD with a Nexus letter from a Veteran Physician. What do I need to do next?
I'm waiting on the call for my C&P exam. Is it an automatic 50% just if you need a CPAP or if you use one and it doesn't fix it? I saw the latter online.
I have been tested for sleep apnea, I was issued a CPAP machine, and now I have a fatty liver do to the CPAP machine and now I’m being treated for that. So I’ve never received a rating for sleep apnea. I was told they don’t rate for sleep apnea any more! Is this not True?
I had a sleep study done by a privet doctor I had severe sleep apnea. Would the va still send me to a c&p exam
Kia Ora from NZ my husband has all the symptoms he been on the capp machine but got claustrophobic and couldnt carry on VA wont accept options so we are stuck!
I had a sleep study done at the request of the VA ( I didn't even file for it ), and the report said that I had both types of apnea. I have back conditions that is already rated, can this be the cause of my apnea? Or do I just file a claim for the apnea?
Hey Dwayne, I don’t know if you answer questions. If not reply just say so. Question with background: Will getting an expert nexus letter with full review of my STR, a substantial investment, sent to VA on my pending OSA 2nd to lumbar spine and hips, with obesity as intermediary be likely to tip scales to equipoise. I had 2 total hip replacement in 2017 were rated 10% per hip in 2021,at which time increase for back from 10 to 20%. My PCP medical letter supports my claim on an at least as likely as not basis. Peeking in my heathy vet, I see tracks of my ongoing sleep apnea claim. VA covering their bases with 2 separate medical opinion letters, posturing case with both letters in response to internal request from the deniers. They are inserting their response with “less-than-likelies” language opining my jaw advancement as treatment for mandibular AP Deficiency. News to me! I thought it was just the final phase of my orthodontics done for correction of my Class 2 Bite. VA says it was due to airway structures. Was diagnosed w/ OSA in 2010. Since online claim says I can still add evidence, so what would the result be of me submitting an Uber-strong nexus letter before the reach denial phase? Your thoughts based on your past experiences as a previous VA Rater? Thanks.
I lost my claim, although I have severe sleep apnea.
I had a sleep study done 4 years ago I was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea would the va send me to a c&p exam for sleep apnea anyway
I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea by the VA via sleep study provided by them. They prescribed a CPAP which I have not been able to get used to. They in turn prescribed a mouth appliance which was sort of working, except that it caused my jaw to not go back to normal after a month and a half so I stopped using. While on the mouth appliance, the VA had me do a second sleep study and found that my sleep apnea got worse, another reason I stopped wearing the appliance. Still after finding the results of the second study, VA stated I wasn't eligible for compensation. However, I didn't officially submit a claim. The VA scheduled me for a third party exam suggested by a VA examiner. At the exam they simply asked the history of my condition and didn't perform any tests. What should I do?
Sleep apnea diagnosed 2014 also have ASBESTOSIS with lung disease diagnosed 1993 30 % DISABILITY it's complicated. ( help) also have other health issues number appeals turned down???
How do I prove that my sleep apnea is service connected I was in the Army from 1986-1993 when they didn't even know what sleep apnea was after AIT I had roommates put socks in my mouth and other harassment because of my snoring but then in 2010 the VA gave me the test and I was told that I was really bad and was placed on a cpap machine
I have it, had surgerys for it, never filed for it. But i was diagnosed with tinnitus with injury to my shoulder. Service connected. How do I file .. ?
A va doctor from the sleep study lab told me I stop breathing 20times threw da night during my home sleep study I already get 70% for ptsd wat would I have after I get approved I just had a phone interview with qtc services for my claim I have in and I got a feeling I got approved they had my test and the lady seem like it was a open and shut case
Hi what if I got a referral during demob. ? I have symptoms of OSA provider wrote referral “due to OSA adult.”I am waiting for VA to schedule sleep medicine at home or record which will be after my active duty orders expire.
I did not file for sleep apnea but the VA insisted that I do the study? I have filed for restless leg syndrome which a VA doctor has diagnosed me to have. Are they related?
I am at 20% for bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus. I have also been diagnosed with sleep apnea by the VA. Could I receive compensation for that also? I do have a CPAP from the VA
Recent research by professional civilian doctors show that there is a connection somehow between sleep apnea and tinnitus, but they are sure how. I just started reading about it, so there might be more information out there.
Same for me as well
How can you prove sleep apnea in military from the 60s since there were only one thousand cases in the USA on c pap machines and cases on arena back then.?
I was denied sleep apnea rating because it says it's hereditary. VA said that I mentioned during my sleep study that my father and uncle has one and been using CPAP. Is there anything that can still be done? I want to make an appeal if possible. Thanks
Can a veteran have COPD and sleep apenea?
If it’s rated for a cpap and it helps are you considered cured and won’t get a disability rating
I did a sleep study test through the VA via third party and I never got the results back. But the VA denied me saying it wasn’t service connected. So I had to look up the results thru the third party company and it said my sleep apnea was an OSA severe. And I was never ask if I wanted a cpap machine. Any advice on how to proceed. All this was done last year or two ago
What about secondary to tinnitus
What If I'm already Dx and the VA has been treating me with a CPAP for over 5 years??
I am a "Blue Water" Navy veteran. The VA recently made hypothyroidism presumptive to Agent orange. Is OSA secondary to hypothyroidism?
I got the same issue!
Is a buddy letter and sleep apnea diagnose after service enough evidence to get rated? I also now have CPAP machine.
I did not get a sleep study done when I was in the service
I didn’t know the symptoms I had were sleep apnea
Could you win earlier effective date after you’ve been great at 100% disabled for service connect
I was granted 100% safconnected for a back injury and other service-connected could I file for all affective date I filed back in 1979
Can MDD be a link?
What about tinnitus as the nexus?
I have severe sleep apnea and was denied. I also have 70% PTSD service connected
Redue it with help
I had congestive heart failure in 2012 my heart specialist diagnosed my issues he is a Civilian ! Being a disabled veteran in 2013 went to a Lubbock VA outpatient center Doctor to find out what happened & why I had congestive heart failure & my wife was with me doctor he ask me if I had trouble breathing or sleeping we both said yes he sent me to the VA Hospital in Amarillo Texas they fitted me with wrist band program for a home sleep test five days later I mailed the band back in 2 days later called me and my wife to come in I had a severe case of sleep apnea was fitted for a CPAP machine & felt like it was why I had congestive heart failure ! I filed a claim they the VA denied my claim said we didn’t give you sleep apnea ! I’am stuck have 90% but I feel like I was unrated !
I am on 50% for MST. I feel a bit resentful of veterans who file for a rating just to get more money. There are more of them than you know. I have my arms, my legs, my brain works and I can see and hear. When I go to the VA hospital I see men and women with no arms, legs, cannot walk, some have TBIs and some have facial disfigurement to the point they are blind. I would love to have a higher rating but I think there are people who deserve it more.
Look if you think this way that’s your opinion & I respect you for that ! After congestive heart failure & being diagnosed with a severe case of sleep apnea, this what found out I was diabetic 2 , high blood pressure , symptoms of glaucoma , two full knee replacements, sciatica nerve damage in both of my thighs, PTSD, anxiety, depression, being treated for that ! Work in a therapy pool 3 days a-week my point is have my hurts are inside & out ! 🇺🇸 US Navy served during the Vietnam conflict & the 5 day conflict between Israel and Arab states my ship took off 34 dead
body’s the wounded to our sick bay when the USS Liberty was attacked ! 🇺🇸
VA diagnosed me with sleep apnea they prescribed me a byepap machine can I get disability for that
The VA diagnosed me with OSA most likely caused by obesity. I injured my knees in jump school, (30%, 10% for knees). I started to slowly gain weight until I was barred from reenlisting due to my weight. I served for 9 years was planning to make a career out of the army. Due to the fact I was injured to a point that I was barred from reenlisting would I have a case to get SC for my OSA?
I would like to know, same thing pretty much happen to me.
Obesity is an “intermediate” disability if due to active duty incident. This is, you began to experiment weight problems during active duty due to an accident that forced tou to a sedentary life. If you have the active duty record to prove it, any health condition related to obesity will be service-connected. Examples are OSA. venous insufficiency, low back pain, type-2 diabetes, depression, etc.
@@leguleyo69 I messed up my knees in jump school and over time in the army I had trouble with PT. I ended up being barred from reenlistment because of my weight.
With the recent VA presumption for Sinusitis and Rhinitis and the amount of vets that have sleep apnea because of breathing issues. Do you think the VA will ever list sleep apnea as a presumption claim for vets that served in the gulf region?
@Justin Gonzalez service in Southwest Asia.
Probably not because they would have so many more claims now that they would have to grant that were previously denied. But it would be nice if they did since so many of us Vets suffer from it.
Hi, Chisholm Chisholm & Kirkpatrick LTD
I am currently receiving service connection disability for Asthma, however I do have a VA diagnosis for sleep apnea. I was prescribed a CPAC machine from the VA. The VA declined my sleep apnea claim because I was in the National Guard when I was diagnosed. What should I do? What advice can you give me. I do snore in my sleep as well as experience lack of sleep.
Did you ever get you service connection, Gerald? I hope so. Interested to hear your outcome and the path you took. I was diagnosed while still in the National Guard too, CPAP proscribed with 50% rating for OSA, but no service connection. How did you fair? I'm still working on mine.
Had my OSA denied with no C&P Exam and is on appeal
Please am interested about topic kindly assist me getting a places to sleeping
I smashed my face in service and they fixed my nose in service is that an in service event? And I SNORE loudly and have forever (since leaving the service in 1973 and I’m normal weight not overweight), just never realized that that’s what sleep apnea was. Also I’m an insomniac but the service said I don’t have a service connection, are these two related?
If you have at least 50% blockage in each passage or completely blocked in one, get service for your nose you can possibly secondary you SA to that. Good Luck!
have a sleep study done by the VA, i have sleep apnea and am scheduled for a cpap, I am not overweight do not smoke, have 50% rating for ptsd go for my c&p exam next week, I will probably get denied the va loves to deny vets
Update
do you have an update from exam
I'm service connect for PTSD and I was dienosed with sleep apnea many times in service and at Va hospital in Indiana and at the VA hospital in the Philippines last dienosed was three months ago I use a sleep apnea machine given to me by VA hospital in Indianapolis Indiana I have asked for the results many times still have not received the results
need advice
You need to contact your regional records office submit a form and they will mail you the sleep study.
I had 3 sleep apnea tests at Kelsey Seybold .Doc said I have severe sleep apnea . so I go to the VA and they gave another sleep test .i fifiled But was turned down by the VA ,HELP
D clinic
Can a lawyer contact me about my cpap. I stop breathing 12 times a hour... and I want to fight for this.... Thank you...
What if I don’t have medical records about symptoms for sleep apnea but I have been diagnosed with it after service
In you were mobilized to the Gulf combat area Kuwait, Iraq, and Syria for example . You can win sinusitis claim an then win the sleep apnea claim secondary to sinusitis. Sinussitis is easy to claim due to high exposure to dust and bad-quality air.
This might need updating
I was medical boarded out in 2005. The VA had me go through a sleep study in 2011 and it shows that I have Obstructive sleep apnea. As part of my service connected list, Panic Disorder diagnosis for 10% initial was raised to 30% after 3rd party evaluation. Since my diagnosis of OSA, I have had panic attacks while using the apnea mask due to trauma during deployment in Korea in 2001. My wife had also observed that I had increased snoring issues and would at times stop breathing a few seconds at a time after returning from Korea. When this was brought to the attention of the VA in 2011, that is when a sleep study was ordered. Does this mean that the 2011 diagnosis for OSA and the panic attacks while using the apnea mask can be tied together to get the OSA added to my disability? Thanks in advance.
Why don’t you call them instead of commenting on a CZcams video?
@@drew7014 call them or the VA?
@@KoshVorlontay you can't be serious.
@@drew7014 if your just going to give an unproductive and glib response then why did you reply at all. Especially when it was not directed at you in the first place. Your not a moderator so stop spamming with useless replies. Blocked.
@@KoshVorlontay stop acting helpless lol. I literally said THEM after commenting on THEIR CZcams video.... does that help?
Does it have to be diagnosed by a VA doctor or can it be diagnose by a civilian doctor?
Any doctor can diagnose you, it just comes down to you being able to prove it's tied to your military service, which a nexus letter or IMO can help do.
Why would I need. C&P exam, if my doctor has filled out the BDQ, and provided a Nexus letter?
I was informed if you had a private medical exam…you must advise the VA not schedule you for a C&P exam, because you had a private medical exam.
I had a private exam and they noted not to schedule a C&P exam on the claim form and the VA denied it. I spoke to an actual VA rater and was informed the rater incorrectly denied it and I should have appealed it. I did not know to appeal it since a private exam was conducted.
The VA rater informed me to mention the private exam on the claim form and not to schedule the C&P exam. I was also informed I can call it in to the 1-800 nbr not to schedule a C&P exam due to completing a private medical exam where your doctor completed your DBQ.
Oh my god I have all of that