Key takeaways
- Under 38 CFR § 3.310, conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are compensable.
- You need a diagnosis and a medical opinion linking the two. Opinions should address both causation and aggravation.
- The examples below are common patterns, not automatic approvals.
The list
1. Radiculopathy secondary to back or neck conditions
Nerve symptoms radiating into the arms or legs are rated separately for each extremity, and they're frequently left out.
2. Hip, back, or opposite-knee conditions from altered gait
Years of favoring one leg can strain other joints. Orthopedic opinions that discuss biomechanics are key.
3. Depression or anxiety secondary to chronic pain
Living with chronic pain or the loss of a career can lead to diagnosable mental health conditions.
4. GERD secondary to medications
Long-term NSAID use for service-connected pain is a recognized cause of GI problems. VA's 2024 digestive rule changed how GERD is rated. See our GERD guide.
5. Erectile dysfunction secondary to medications or conditions
Often linked to antidepressants, blood pressure medications, diabetes, or spinal conditions. ED usually carries a 0% rating but may qualify for SMC-K.
6. Peripheral neuropathy and kidney disease secondary to diabetes
Diabetes type II (presumptive for Agent Orange exposure) often brings secondary complications that each deserve their own rating.
7. Sleep apnea through aggravation
Medical literature and opinions sometimes support aggravation by service-connected conditions or medications. These claims need strong, case-specific medical evidence.
8. Hypertension secondary to other conditions
Kidney disease, certain medications, and other conditions can contribute. Hypertension is also presumptive for Agent Orange exposure under the PACT Act.
9. Migraines or headaches secondary to TBI, neck conditions, or tinnitus
Rated separately when the medical evidence distinguishes them from the primary condition's symptoms.
10. Scars from surgery on service-connected conditions
Surgical scars can be rated if painful, unstable, or large enough to meet the criteria.
We'll review your rated conditions and medical history for gaps.
What a winning secondary claim includes
- A current diagnosis of the secondary condition
- A service-connected primary condition
- A medical opinion that the primary condition at least as likely as not caused or aggravated the secondary one, with reasoning and references to your records. See what makes a strong nexus letter.
A note on pyramiding
VA won't rate the same symptoms twice (38 CFR § 4.14). A secondary condition must involve distinct symptoms or functions. That's why nerve symptoms (radiculopathy) can be rated separately from spine motion.
Sources
This article is general information, not legal advice. VA and SSA rules change; verify current rules with VA.gov or SSA.gov or talk to an accredited representative.