Secondary Conditions Hub
Discover which conditions may be claimed as secondary to your service-connected disabilities.
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Primary Conditions
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Secondary Relationships
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Categories
What is Secondary Service Connection?
Under 38 CFR 3.310, you can receive VA disability compensation for conditions that are:
- Caused by a service-connected disability (proximately due to)
- Aggravated by a service-connected disability (made permanently worse)
Example: If you have service-connected PTSD and develop sleep apnea, research shows PTSD can cause sleep apnea - making it potentially claimable as a secondary condition.
Hypertension
Long-term hypertension causes damage to multiple organ systems.
Common Secondary Conditions:
How to File a Secondary Service Connection Claim
Gather Evidence
Get a medical opinion (nexus letter) linking your secondary condition to your primary service-connected disability.
File Your Claim
Submit VA Form 21-526EZ for a new claim or supplemental claim. Clearly state the condition is secondary to your existing disability.
Attend Your Exam
Be prepared to explain how your primary condition caused or aggravated the secondary condition. Bring supporting documentation.
Related Tools
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not guarantee approval of any claim. Secondary service connection requires medical evidence establishing a link between conditions. Each case is decided individually based on the evidence. Consult with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or VA-accredited attorney for personalized guidance.