Hyperlipidemia, commonly known as high cholesterol, is a condition that affects millions of Americans, including many veterans. While it’s not considered a disability by the VA, hyperlipidemia can be the underlying cause of many cardiac related issues that may not be currently diagnosed.
Hyperlipidemia and VA Disability
Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, which includes cholesterol and triglycerides. It’s a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and hypertension.
Despite its serious health implications, the VA does not recognize hyperlipidemia as a stand-alone disability eligible for direct compensation. Hyperlipidemia is a laboratory finding and is not subject to VA disability compensation, however, if it causes a cardiac condition, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), hypertensive heart disease or CAD, VA can rate the cardiac condition related to the hyperlipidemia.
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How Hyperlipidemia Can Strengthen Your VA Disability Claim: Case Example
Hyperlipidemia, commonly referred to as high cholesterol, is not recognized as a standalone disability under VA law. However, its significance cannot be understated when it comes to establishing service connection for other serious health conditions, such as coronary artery disease (CAD). This case study demonstrates how evidence of hyperlipidemia can play a crucial role in securing VA disability benefits for related conditions.
The Veteran served actively in the military from April 1980 to February 2001. During service, the Veteran was diagnosed with hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of lipids in the blood, which is a known risk factor for developing coronary artery disease. After retiring from service, the Veteran experienced an acute inferior myocardial infarction (heart attack) in March 2010 and was subsequently diagnosed with coronary artery disease.
Hyperlipidemia’s Role in the VA Claim
While the VA does not recognize hyperlipidemia as a compensable disability, the condition’s relevance becomes clear when it is linked to the development of more severe health issues, such as coronary artery disease. In this case, the Veteran’s in-service diagnosis of hyperlipidemia was a critical factor in establishing the service connection for CAD.
A June 2010 letter from the Veteran’s cardiologist highlighted that the Veteran’s history of hyperlipidemia likely contributed to the development of coronary artery disease, which led to myocardial infarction. In contrast, a December 2010 VA examination conducted by an obstetrician concluded that the Veteran’s heart condition was not related to his service, citing normal cholesterol levels during service. However, this opinion was given less weight due to the examiner’s specialty in obstetrics rather than cardiology and the lack of a detailed rationale regarding the relationship between hyperlipidemia and CAD.
Board Decision
Given the evidence, including the cardiologist’s opinion that hyperlipidemia contributed to the Veteran’s coronary artery disease, the Board resolved reasonable doubt in the Veteran’s favor. It granted service connection for coronary artery disease, recognizing that the in-service diagnosis of hyperlipidemia was a significant factor leading to the development of CAD.
This case shows the importance of understanding how conditions like hyperlipidemia, though not compensable on their own, can be vital in establishing service connection for other serious disabilities. Hyperlipidemia may not be rated, but it can pave the way for securing benefits for related, more serious conditions like coronary artery disease.
How to Strengthen Your Hyperlipidemia Claim
These case studies illustrate that while hyperlipidemia isn’t a disability on its own, it can be connected to other service-connected conditions, which may open the door to compensation. Here are some steps veterans can take to strengthen their claims:
- Medical Nexus: Ensure you have a clear and strong medical opinion linking your hyperlipidemia to a service-connected condition, such as hypertension. This nexus is critical in securing a secondary service connection.
- Updated Medical Records: Keep all medical records current and include detailed notes from your healthcare providers that explain how your hyperlipidemia affects your overall health and is related to your service-connected conditions.
- Appeal if Necessary: Don’t be discouraged if your initial claim is denied. As demonstrated in the cases above, appeals with additional evidence can lead to a successful outcome.
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Filing a Claim for Hyperlipidemia as a Secondary Condition
If you believe your hyperlipidemia is connected to a service-connected condition like hypertension, it’s essential to file a claim correctly. Here’s how you can do it:
- Gather Evidence: Collect all medical records, including recent lab results showing elevated cholesterol levels and any statements from your doctors linking your hyperlipidemia to your service-connected condition.
- Complete VA Form 21-526EZ: This form is used to apply for disability compensation, including secondary conditions.
- Submit Your Claim: You can submit your claim online through the VA’s eBenefits portal, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office.
- Seek Assistance: Consider working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or legal representative who can help navigate the claims process and ensure you have all the necessary documentation.
While hyperlipidemia may not be a disability on its own, it can still play a significant role in your VA disability claim, especially if it’s linked to a service-connected condition like hypertension. By understanding the importance of medical evidence and the appeals process, you can strengthen your case and secure the benefits you deserve.
Have you been denied benefits for a condition related to hyperlipidemia or other conditions? Contact us today for a free case evaluation to discuss your options and get the benefits you deserve.
Content Reviewed by
Cassandra, an Accredited Agent and claims advocate for Matthew Hill & Shelly Mark’s teams, reviewed the information provided in this post.
