Lead Exposure During Military Service A number of U.S servicemen with unexplained symptoms such as impaired concentration, anger, irritability, and impulsivity, as well as physical problems such as high blood pressure, peripheral neuropathy and low sex drive, have chronic lead poisoning according to a report in the New York Times in April. What is Lead?… Read More ..read more

The VA assigns disability ratings to veterans with service-connected conditions. The disability rating which is assigned is based on how severe the veteran’s condition is and how it impairs their earning capacity. Ratings range from 0 to 100 percent. Depending on the circumstances, veterans may still be able to work while receiving a 100 percent… Read More ..read more

Multiple Sclerosis Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease which impacts the central nervous system. The body’s immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath that covers and protects nerve fibers. This damage interferes with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. Common signs and symptoms of MS… Read More ..read more

According to an investigation by the Office of Inspector General (OIG), the VA spent over $10.1 million on unwarranted reexaminations in just six months and will waste an additional $100.6 million over the next five years. The OIG found that the Veterans Benefits Administration was skipping a pre-exam review by a Rating Veterans Service Representative… Read More ..read more

3M, the manufacturer of earplugs, is alleged to have sold defective earplugs to the military. As a result of these defective earplugs, members of the military who used them may experience damage to their hearing. The issue was exposed when a whistleblower notified the U.S. government that 3M’s predecessor company, Aero Technologies, knew there was… Read More ..read more

VA Disability Ratings for Surgery How to Qualify for Disability Benefits for Surgery Veterans may be able to get disability benefits if they have had surgery or received treatment at a VA hospital, approved hospital, or outpatient center for a disability related to their military service. If veterans have had surgery, then both of these… Read More ..read more

Have you had a suspicious call from a person or organization stating they were with or a representative of the Department of Veterans (VA) and offering a large payout for a small fee? If so, you could be getting scammed. Click here to read an article from the VA that can help protect you and… Read More ..read more

Urinary Tract Infection What is a Urinary Tract Infection? A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system. The urinary system includes the following: Kidneys which filter blood and generate body waste in the form of urine Ureters are tubes that carry urine from kidneys to the bladder Bladder… Read More ..read more

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma What is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma? Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer of the lymph glands and other lymphatic tissue. Specifically, lymphatic tissue is found in the lymph nodes, spleen, and other organs of the immune system. Symptoms association with Non-Hodgkin’s include: Swollen lymph nodes Fever Night sweats Fatigue Weight loss Abdominal pain Chest… Read More ..read more

Shrapnel Wounds What is a Shrapnel Wound? Shrapnel refers to sharp, dangerous shards of metal. When dealing with the VA, shrapnel typically includes bomb, mine, or gun shell fragments. Therefore shrapnel wounds are injuries due to these metal fragments, normally coming from some sort of explosive device and most commonly incurred during combat. How Does… Read More ..read more