Asthma 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 asthma within 10 years of your separation, the VA acknowledges that your asthma 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 Asthma 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 asthma 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 Asthma?
Asthma is a condition in which your air passageways swell and narrow and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and result in coughing and wheezing when you breathe out, as well as shortness of breath.
For some, asthma may be a minor nuisance. But for others, it can be a significant problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. Asthma is not a curable condition, but its symptoms can be controlled.
Asthma symptoms will vary from person to person. You may have infrequent asthma attacks, have symptoms only at certain times, such as when exercising, or you may have symptoms all the time.
Your final VA rating for asthma depends upon the frequency and severity of your symptoms, which means the more severe your symptoms, the higher your rating. There is also a link between asthma and sleep apnea. If you develop sleep apnea as a result of your asthma, you can file a VA claim for sleep apnea secondary to asthma.
What Are The Symptoms of Asthma?
- Shortness of breath (trouble breathing)
- Chest tightness or pain
- Wheezing when exhaling
- Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
- Fatigue (being overly tired)
- Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus, such as a cold or the flu
Do I Qualify For VA Benefits?
Tucker Disability Law is dedicated to helping veterans get the benefits they deserve. If you have developed asthma due to burn pit exposure, we want to assist you. And if you filed a claim for asthma 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.
