If you served in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, or anywhere in the Southwest Asia theater of military operations, you may suffer from medically unexplained illnesses known as “Gulf War Syndrome.” Those who suffer symptoms may qualify for VA Disability benefits so long as the disability is rated at 10% or more. If you’re having trouble determining your eligibility for Gulf War Syndrome VA benefits, the veteran’s disability lawyers at Rutter Mills can help.
Gulf War Syndrome Lawyers
Criteria for Gulf War Syndrome VA Disability Benefits
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans who suffer from Gulf War Syndrome– also known as Gulf War Illness– may be eligible to receive VA disability compensation without proving a connection between their military service and physical symptoms.
The VA presumes that certain illnesses and disabilities are automatically service-connected. No evidence is needed besides documents demonstrating veterans were in active service at specific times and locations. Veterans who were not dishonorably discharged may qualify for Gulf War Illness benefits for conditions and illnesses if:
- The illness began during active duty or before December 31, 2021
- It was caused only by your service in the Southwest Asia theater of operations
- The symptoms caused illness for six months
- The illness is at least 10% disabling, according to a VA rating evaluation
VA Benefits for Presumptive Illness from Gulf War service
Thousands of Gulf War veterans have developed chronic symptoms ranging from headaches and indigestion to dizziness, memory problems, and gastrointestinal disorders. The VA refers to these medically unexplained conditions as “chronic multi-symptom illness” or “undiagnosed illnesses.”
Gulf War veterans diagnosed with one of the following conditions do not need to prove a connection between the illness and their military service.
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Abdominal pain syndrome
- Functional dyspepsia
- Functional dysphagia
- Undiagnosed illnesses: abnormal weight loss, cardiovascular disease, headache, fatigue, sleep disturbances, muscle and joint pain, neurological and psychological problems, menstrual disorders, respiratory illnesses, and skin disorders.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis after 90 days or more continuous active military service
Disability claims for Gulf War Syndrome can be complicated without the benefit of experienced legal counsel. The VA denies up to 80 percent of claims filed by Gulf War veterans who cite both undiagnosed illness and chronic multi-symptom illness.
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A licensed attorney can NEVER charge you to file your initial VA Disability claim. If an attorney asks you to sign a contract regarding future payments or make a donation to file your initial claim, contact the Virginia Bar Association and the VA.
Veterans Disability Lawyers
Next Steps
Gulf War Syndrome VA Disability Lawyers
Too many disabled Gulf War veterans have been deprived of Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. Our dedicated VA disability lawyers provide sound legal support for individuals suffering from Gulf War Syndrome. Whether your claim was wrongfully denied or you need assistance understanding the VA criteria for disability compensation, you can count on our legal team.
For expert representation in coastal Virginia and northeastern North Carolina, call Rutter Mills at 757-777-7777 to schedule a free consultation. We handle all VA claims on a contingency-fee arrangement, so there are no upfront fees. Our attorneys will only get paid their fees if we win your case.
Workers Compensation
If you’ve been injured on the job, workers’ compensation insurance may entitle you to critical assistance like medical treatment, lost wages, and more. But insurance companies will put up an aggressive fight to resist paying you the compensation you need and deserve. Rutter Mills can help get you the money you deserve.
Contact a Gulf War Syndrome attorney for expert legal guidance
A Rutter Mills case is a serious case. It may mean you have been badly injured. It certainly means you have a lot on the line, and the resolution of your case will make a big difference to you, your family, and your life moving forward.
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