Question:
Hi Jim. I just read one of your answers to a Vietnam veteran inquiring about secondary problems caused by diabetes. Being that the government is accepting responsibility for diabetes (AO) are they not also responsible for secondary problems such as neuropathy and high blood pressure? They are almost a give-me for those who have diabetes.
Jim's Reply:
Yes, you're correct. Any service connected disease like diabetes that can and usually does cause other problems can be considered as a primary condition that can cause a cascade effect that causes other conditions. Diabetes ravages our arterial vascular system and can cause heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, peripheral artery disease, diabetic eye problems and a whole lot more. I suggest filing for any secondary condition as soon as possible after diagnosis.