Auto-Approved! How Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Can Skyrocket Your VA Rating

In this video, we dive deep into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any other medical condition. Many veterans experience symptoms that worsen with physical or mental activity, yet don’t improve with rest, making it a debilitating condition for those affected.

Also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) or Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease (SEID), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can have a significant impact on veterans' daily lives. There is no single test for diagnosis, and it often requires ruling out other conditions such as sleep disorders, anemia, diabetes, and heart and lung issues. Veterans may also experience mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety, which can contribute to chronic fatigue.

Common Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:
- Persistent fatigue lasting more than six months
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
- Sore throat
- Muscle or joint pain
- Headaches
- Sleep disturbances
- Extreme exhaustion after physical or mental exercise

Veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations are particularly susceptible to developing CFS. Research has shown that veterans deployed during the Gulf War have an increased risk for conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Gulf War Syndrome.

The VA recognizes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as a service-connected disability for Gulf War veterans, with ratings ranging from 10% to 100%, depending on the severity and impact of symptoms. If you're experiencing fatigue that affects your ability to function on a daily basis, you may be eligible for compensation.

VA Disability Ratings for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:
- 100% Rating: Debilitating fatigue and cognitive impairments that restrict nearly all daily activities and occasionally preclude self-care.
- 60% Rating: Symptoms that restrict routine daily activities to less than 50% of pre-illness levels.
- 40% Rating: Restrictions on daily activities from 50-75% of pre-illness levels, or incapacitation for at least four weeks per year.
- 20% Rating: Symptoms restrict daily activities by less than 25%, or result in two to four weeks of incapacitation per year.
- 10% Rating: Symptoms controlled by medication, or result in one to two weeks of incapacitation per year.

The Connection Between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and PTSD:
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is often linked as a secondary condition to PTSD. Veterans with service-connected PTSD may develop CFS, further complicating their ability to function. A medical diagnosis and a nexus letter are key to proving this connection for VA benefits.

C&P Exams for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:
The C&P exam for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a critical part of your VA disability claim. The examiner will assess your symptoms, their frequency, severity, and how they impact your daily life. This video walks you through what to expect during your C&P exam and how to prepare for it.

If you’re a veteran experiencing chronic fatigue, it’s important to understand your options for VA disability compensation. Watch this video for an in-depth explanation of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, the VA disability rating criteria, and how to get the benefits you deserve.

Be sure to subscribe for more insights into VA disability claims, and share this video with other veterans who may be experiencing similar symptoms. Don't let your fatigue go unrecognized—your service entitles you to the support you need.

#ChronicFatigueSyndrome
#CFS
#VADisability
#VeteransBenefits
#GulfWarSyndrome
#ME/CFS
#VeteransHealth
#PTSD
#VADisabilityClaims
#FatigueAwareness
#VeteranSupport
#CAndPExam
#VeteransCommunity
#VADisabilityCompensation
#VeteransResources

[toddmillican]

Amazing info! I've had it in my records since desert storm, I ended up serving 22 years. I retired in 2007. Ever since I retired, when I addressed it with the VA doctors, they always have dismissed it completely, or said it was for some other reason, i.e. age, weight gain, mixed sleep apnea, or laziness. The reality is that I have to shut down every day for about 3 hours, to build up the enertia to finish the day out. If I don't I literally have the energy and mental abilities of someone that has not rested for 24 hours or so. I'm not sure where to go from here, but this has encouraged me to try, rather than accept their dismissal. Fortunately it has been documented by military doctors several times while serving. Thank you!

[chiosaechow]

I didn't know I had this until now. Having to take a nap after chores/grocery shopping just to get enough energy to finish the day. Also, the part where I'm sleeping the recommended times and still waking up exhausted. Thank you! I'll look into filing a claim for this.

[timelost]

I've had chronic fatigue for years - had no clue you could file a claim to the VA for it. Thank-you!

[carlostomas]

As always, another awesome video 👍🏼I'm at 70% for combat ptsd from the desert storm gulf war, and was planning to file for Chronic fatigue.

[scelestcx]

Finally hit 100% thanks to VA claims Academy🎉

[natashascott]

Yeah I filed for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and got 60% for it. I was shocked.

[alanpitts]

Great information . Just sent that to my VSO!

[abrahamagiba]

Got to admit brother your videos are fire

[antiochaldo]

Hey Jordan great Video.
I was hoping you was gonna also explain how tough this is to get diagnosed, because there is no test for CFS. They basically want to exclude a bunch of other possibilities, the problem is you probably did gain weight from this conditions over the years which can lead to sleep apnea, Migraines, you probably will have some sort of mental condition they want you to exclude first, having the right doctor is paramount and they will probably send you to a rheumatologist for your joint discomfort. Hopefully the doctor is familiar with CFS and feels comfortable to put it all together for you as CFS and not just brush it off as one of these other conditions

[RoroYaKnow]

I start terminal in >30 days. I mentioned to my C&P examiner that my pulmonologist was continuing my diagnosis for chronic fatigue. She said that I wouldn’t want to be diagnosed for that. No reason given. She has Narcolepsy and I have hypersomnia with a prescribed CPAP, so there was some sort of bonding.

[jsett]

I got 60% for CFSv and never even filled for it. I did a HLR for a total different condition went to my C&MP exam and they gave me CFS.

[andrewfrechtman]

Is a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome rating limited exclusively to post- Gulf war veterans?

[osamuinu]

im at 70% with PTSD, i would say i have chronic back pain and fatigue. I just don’t know how i would start my process for filing.

[crustyfarmer]

You left out the most important part: you need to have a prescription for bed rest to get 100%. I got mine in 2013.

[stevehei]

What kind of doctor do I need for a Nexus letter since this is not Mental Health related? 😊

[GrandinettisGeneralContractors]

Great information appreciate all the help. I emailed your websites email yesterday. Will someone answer? Looking to sign soon.

[jaktripper]

I have chronic fatigue but I don't know how to prove it. I do not qualify for the pact act but I did go out to the Pursian gulf multiple times. I am also rated for PTSD. Can I just go to my Primary care to discuss this or can I just file a claim under my PTSD?

[tommywatson]

Can I get it as a secondary condition to A heart condition that causes fatigue ??

[joeb.]

Are there presumptives for participation in a TERA?

[ericmontano]

So as I watch all these videos. When I get 100%. Is there still a point to keep going just to at least getting it documented?