Rhinitis Caused By Burn Pit Exposure
If you were a U.S. service member stationed in the Southwest Asia theater of operations beginning Aug. 2, 1990, to the present, or Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Syria or Djibouti beginning Sept. 19, 2001, to the present, and have developed rhinitis within 10 years of your separation, the VA acknowledges that your rhinitis was caused by a burn pit.
This is called a presumptive condition and you qualify for VA benefits.
Why Are Burn Pits Dangerous?
Burn pits were used at military sites outside the United States to get rid of unwanted products–such as ordinance, paint, and medical waste. The toxins and smoke released by these burn pits can affect the skin, eyes, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and gastrointestinal tract, resulting in serious illness.
I Know My Rhinitis Was Caused From My Time in The Service, But I Wasn’t Around Burn Pits. Can I Get VA Benefits?
If you are a veteran who has developed rhinitis linked to your military service but did not serve in the areas where burn pits were used, we can still help. For a free evaluation of your case, contact us online or call us at 866-282-5260.
What Is Rhinitis? 
Rhinitis is when a reaction occurs that causes nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Most types of rhinitis are caused by inflammation and are associated with symptoms in the eyes, ears, or throat. It is commonly referred to as hayfever.
Among participants in VA’s Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry, hay fever or allergies are the third most commonly reported health condition of veterans who served in Southwest Asia after insomnia and neurological problems.
What are the Symptoms of Rhinitis?
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose, throat, eyes, and ears
- Coughing
- Nosebleeds
- Clear drainage from the nose
- Sore/scratchy throat
- Itchy/watery eyes
- Frequent headaches
- Ear infections that keep coming back
- Eczema-type symptoms (dry, itchy skin)
- Hives
- Excessive fatigue (being overly tired)
- Snoring
There is also a link between rhinitis and sleep apnea. If you develop sleep apnea as a result of your rhinitis, you can file a VA claim for sleep apnea secondary to rhinitis.
Do I Qualify for VA Benefits?
Tucker Disability Law is dedicated to helping veterans get the benefits they deserve. If you have developed rhinitis due to burn pit exposure, we want to assist you. And if you filed a claim for rhinitis prior to August 5, 2021 and were denied, we can help you appeal. Get Free Advice today. Call. Chat. Schedule a Free Consultation. Our service is no cost to you until we WIN! Make today the last day you worry about your disability claim. To get started, click this link or call us at 866-282-5260.
