Question:
I am apparently going to have a C&P exam for my hypertension related to Agent Orange. That is according to heads up email I got from VA. I have been diagnosed with hypertension since around 1992 or 93. I take two different medications on a daily basis. I was told by a vet friend that if they examine me and my blood pressure is in the normal range, then I will not get service connected. Is that correct? I would be fine if they rated me at 0%. In that case it would be on my VA record.
Jim's Reply:
High blood pressure is rated by what was recorded before you went on medication. That you are on 2 different types of medicine for your high blood pressure is all the evidence anyone needs to know that you are hypertensive. Why would you be on medication for hypertension otherwise?
Tell your friend that he is spreading the old rumor that you shouldn't take your meds for days before the exam and he needs to cut that out...that's how veterans have strokes! Good luck sir.