It is a sobering statistic. More than 20 percent of U.S. troops wounded in battle sustained a traumatic brain injury. A TBI is caused by a sudden blow to the head which causes damage to the brain and often is accompanied by bleeding inside the head or swelling of the brain. If you have suffered a TBI you may feel confused and disoriented, or you may even go into a coma. You might also lose your memory about what happened immediately before and after the injury. A TBI can range from mild to severe. A whole host of serious medical problems can result from a TBI – stroke and epilepsy among them. If you fall in that category, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits.
The symptoms of a traumatic brain injuries last longer for veterans than for civilians. Some veterans are reported to have symptoms for up to two years after a TBI. Often, a veteran who experiences a mild TBI will recover completely. But it’s also possible for veterans to develop the many lasting symptoms even after a mild TBI including difficulty concentrating, memory loss, feeling dizzy, and getting angry easily.
5 TBI-Connected Conditions the VA is Recognizing With This New Regulation
In January 2014, the VA issued a new regulation to help veterans receive benefits for a TBI. Veterans who suffer from a TBI and are diagnosed with one of five specific conditions now have an easier time receiving disability benefits. The VA recognizes the following diseases as “presumed service-connected” to TBIs:
1) Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson's disease is presumed to be a service-connected condition related to a TBI if it’s diagnosed following a moderate or severe brain injury.
2) Seizures: The VA will recognize seizures if no cause has been found for them after the veteran experiences a moderate or severe TBI.
3) Certain Types of Dementia: The VA will award benefits for these dementias if the veteran is diagnosed within 15 years following a moderate or severe TBI.
4) Depression: The VA recognizes depression if it’s diagnosed within one year of a mild TBI or three years of a moderate or severe TBI.
5) Hormone Deficiency Diseases: Certain diseases of the pituitary and hypothalamus glands are eligible for disability if they’re diagnosed within 12 months of a moderate or severe TBI.
Contact Our Omaha Attorneys for Help Getting VA Disability Benefits for Traumatic Brain Injuries
Depending on the extent of the injury, TBI vets are now eligible up to a 100% disability rating. If you believe you have suffered a service-related TBI but have been turned down for disability benefits by the VA, you have the right to appeal. Contact us at Cuddigan Law for a free evaluation of your situation. At Cuddigan Law you have a team of professionals in your corner who will fight for your rights.