A veteran with Meniere’s disease can claim up to 100% VA rating, which can equate to $3621.95 according to the official VA rating system.
Even though Meniere’s disease can develop at any age, it more often develops among adults between the ages of 40 and 60. And veterans also develop this disease because of their training, loud sounds of gunshots or explosions and injuring themselves in the head or ear.
What is Meniere’s Disease?
Meniere’s disease is an ear problem that can cause vertigo (dizziness), tinnitus (ringing in the ear) or imbalance. Excess build-up of a fluid called endolymph in the membranous labyrinth of the inner ear may cause Meniere’s disease.
Vertigo, tinnitus or muffled hearing may occur because of this disease. Sometimes, these complications occur repeatedly over a short period of time and other times, they span over a long period of time. Sometimes, the vertigo becomes so severe that people fall because of imbalance. This is called a “Drop Attack”.
Causes of Meniere’s Disease
Even though there is no solid evidence or study as to what causes Meniere’s disease, experts say that the following may be the reason for this disorder –
- Head Injuries
- Headaches
- Viral Infections
- Genetic Problems
- Allergies
Symptoms of Meniere’s Disease
These are the symptoms of this disorder –
- Vertigo
- Vomiting because of severe vertigo
- Headaches
- Tinnitus
- Feeling like the ear is full/Muffled hearing
- Losing body balance
If these symptoms show themselves, consider seeking medical aid.
Disability Rating for Meniere’s Disease
The VA rates this disorder according to the level of dizziness and loss of hearing. The VA rates for Meniere’s disease are coded as Code 6205, and the ratings are –
- 30% Rating: When you experience hearing impairment along with vertigo less than once a month, the VA gives it a 30% rating, which is equivalent to $508.05. You may also experience tinnitus with vertigo.
- 60% Rating: The VA gives the situation a 60% rating when you experience hearing impairment with vertigo and cerebral gait one to four times a month. 60% rating equals to $1319.65. You may experience tinnitus in this condition, too.
- 100% Rating: The VA gives this rating when you experience hearing impairment with vertigo and cerebral gait more than once a week. And this is the highest rating with $3621.95. You may or may not experience tinnitus in this condition as well.
Conclusion
Not a single person should have to go through such a condition as Meniere’s Disease, especially not veterans who give their life and limb for their country. That’s why VA Disability Coach helps veterans with all their VA needs. So, get your applications ready to be reviewed by the experts here so that you can get the best possible rating for your disability.