Question:
I am currently rated at 100 % TDIU, but I have other major problems that come from the disabilities I am rated for. I could also be receiving special compensation for one of my eyes but no one knows how to file for any of my other ailments because they say I am TDIU. I have BBC sleep apnea treated by the VA, high blood pressure caused by sleep apnea. I take meds for my high blood pressure that cause glaucoma symptoms. I have also lost vision in my right eye because my high blood pressure caused a retina tear. Is there any way you can see to help? Thank you.
Jim's Reply:
I don't understand what you mean when you tell me, "no one knows how to file for any of my other ailments because they say I am TDIU"?
That you are TDIU makes no difference in filing additional claims. If you believe that you have additional conditions that should be service connected, you simply file the claim as always. The same for any rated condition that you believe has worsened...you file the claim.
That doesn't mean you'll prevail or that if you do prevail that you'll get any additional money. There are often times our ratings add up to over 100% but we're limited to the monetary benefit of 100% because that's how the rating system works. There are times that our ratings will add up to indicate a need for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) that can greatly increase the monetary benefit a very seriously disabled veteran needs to live.
Filing additional claims after you're rated at 100% does carry some risk. When we file claims our entire profile is reviewed and we're always subjected to new C & P exams. If your exams found improvement in your rated conditions you could actually lose benefits.
We have to be careful what we ask for, VA is full of surprises. Good luck.