As a veteran who’s served their country, the idea of your military career being cut short due to an injury is a pretty devastating one. Not only that, but it may prevent you from finding and keeping a job when you return to civilian life, therefore leaving your financial prospects and your future in question.
If your military service is now over, and you’re heading back to civilian life then it’s important to hit the ground running and take control of your finances and build yourself a strong support network. Your first port of call is to find out what benefits you’re entitled to – click the following link for an explanation of VA disability benefits. Read on for 6 of the most common disabilities that veterans face after service.
Tinnitus
When you’ve spent an extensive amount of time working around aircraft, gunfire or even explosives chances are your hearing may be damaged. Tinnitus is defined as a ringing, buzzing, clicking or hissing sensation in one or both ears, it sounds trivial but for the patient, it can be incredibly debilitating. While the symptoms aren’t painful, suffering with Tinnitus either occasionally or indefinitely, will have a negative impact on your quality of life. Sufferers should also be made aware that Tinnitus is often the sign of another medical issue, such as a brain or spinal injury.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
It’s all too easy to focus on physical disabilities, neglecting how damaging and devastating a mental condition can be. This mental health disorder usually involves vivid flashbacks, intrusive thoughts and images, surreal nightmares, sweating, trembling, and distress at reminders of the event. PTSD is common amongst servicemen and women who have witnessed a traumatic event. Sadly, there is no cure for PTSD, however, with psychological help, therapies and even medication, the condition can be monitored and regulated better.
Hearing loss
Another common disability amongst veterans. The complications and impact hearing loss can have is pretty obvious, however hearing loss claims must be directly linked to your military service, in order to receive your benefit entitlement.
Migraines
More than just a simple headache, migraines are incredibly debilitating, painful and can make the sufferer’s life a misery. The severity of your migraines will determine your benefit rating. Your symptoms, as well as the longevity of your migraines, will play a part in this evaluation.
Ankle motion issues
Problems with the ankle joint are widespread in veterans, making it a common VA claim. The stress and strain that veterans place on their bodies in order to do their jobs, means that over time their joints suffer. This can lead to issues with the range of motion, pain and your ability to use the joint properly.
Knee problems
Much like your ankle, the knee joint can experience a lot of trauma. Potentially damaging its range of movement. You may require a full knee replacement or physiotherapy in order to gain back your knee movement and stability.
Every VA claim is different, get in touch with your lawyer today to discuss the VA application process.
