Question:
I have been diagnosed with migraines on active duty. In order for migraines to go away, I need to lie down in a quiet dark room. If the prescribed medications reduce symptoms, are benefits also reduced?
Jim's Reply:
No...benefits are awarded based on your worst symptoms, not your best days. It's assumed that without medication for a rated condition that the condition would recur with the usual intensity so your award isn't affected by medicated improvements in symptoms. This is also true of other conditions that may involve significant pain or other symptoms relieved by medication...hypertension is a good example. If you have a service connected high blood pressure and your numbers are normal while medicated, you won't lose the benefit. Never fear appropriate medical treatment as that won't affect your disability benefit.