Lung nodules are prevalent and may be a sign of a severe health problem or none at all. These lung nodules, however, may increase veterans' eligibility for VA disability payments. It is crucial for veterans seeking compensation to navigate the nuances of VA disability ratings for lung nodules, which may be challenging.
This article will explore the many aspects of VA disability ratings for lung nodules, related health issues, and the steps that can be taken to prove that you are eligible for compensation.
What Are Lung Nodules?
Nodules on the lungs are tiny, usually harmless growths that don't exceed three centimeters in diameter. CT scans or chest X-rays commonly identify them and have a round or oval shape. Lung nodules may be caused by various circumstances, including inflammation, infections, or other benign illnesses, but they can still cause worry. A biopsy is required to ascertain their malignant or benign nature; 60% of the time, they turn out soft.
Symptoms of Lung Nodules
Most lung nodules do not produce any discernible symptoms and often do not cause pain either. During imaging exams, they are typically accidentally found. If symptoms do manifest, they are usually mild to severe and may include things like a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or even coughing up blood. More severe respiratory infections can occur when the nodule is close to essential airways.
Establishing a Service Connection
Veterans with lung nodules who are seeking disability compensation from the VA must be able to prove that the nodules were directly caused by their military service. Lung health records from before, during, and after military service are also needed. The treating physician is responsible for proving that the patient's pulmonary illness is related to military duty and, more specifically, to exposure to certain environmental elements such as smoke, fuel, soot, or fumes.
Lung Nodules as a Secondary Condition
Lung nodules are considered a secondary service-connected illness since they are often linked to other lung disorders. Lung nodules may thus qualify veterans for further compensation if they are already receiving benefits for a common lung disease. Lung nodules may increase the total disability rating and compensation due to conditions including COPD, lung cancer, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or chronic sinusitis.
VA Disability Ratings for Lung Nodules
Diagnostic Code (DC) 6820 encompasses both benign and malignant growths of the respiratory system, and the VA offers a grading system for lung nodules under this code. Rather than being given specific numbers, these evaluations are derived from a "proper respiratory analogy." When assessing lung nodules, other respiratory disorders are considered, and the ailment's severity dictates the VA disability rating, which should be anywhere from 10% to 100%.
A higher grade is given to more severe instances, and the exact rating is based on how much the ailment impacts everyday living.
The Role of a Pulmonary Function Test
Pulmonary function tests are vital to determine the effect of lung nodules on a veteran's ability to breathe. A person's ability to exhale air and the rate at which their lungs provide oxygen to the blood are both assessed in these tests. The VA disability rating and compensation eligibility are both affected by the outcomes of these examinations.
Pulmonary Testing Metrics
Pulmonary function tests provide metrics that are used to evaluate the severity of lung conditions. These metrics include forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and the forced expiratory volume to forced strong capacity ratio (FEV1/FVC). The VA disability rating, ranging from 10% to 100%, is based on these characteristics. A higher grade is given to more severe instances, and the exact rating is based on how much the ailment impacts everyday living.
Navigating the Appeals Process
Veterans can file an appeal if refused or given a lesser disability rating than anticipated. Explain your case thoroughly, focusing on how your military duty has affected your lung nodules. A persuasive argument for a positive result may be made with a well-documented appeal and filled with terms.
