Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. DVT can lead to other serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism and edema. The VA provides benefits for service-connected DVT and blood clots with ratings between 0% and 100%. Read on to learn more about the DVT VA rating and what veterans who can’t work due to this health condition can do to receive additional compensation.
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In this article about the VA rating for deep vein thrombosis:
What is deep vein thrombosis?
Our bodies circulate blood through a complex system of arteries and veins. Hearts pump blood into the body through the arteries, and veins bring blood back to the heart.
You can imagine our circulatory system as a bustling highway. Blood cells would be the vehicles cruising along these roads of arteries and veins. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is like an unexpected traffic jam in one of the deep veins. Slow or stagnant blood flow can cause blood cells to start to stick together, forming a clot (thrombus) like crashing cars piling up on a highway.
When you get a cut, blood clots are how your body controls the bleeding. However, when your blood clots when and where it isn’t supposed to, the semi-solid mass of blood platelets and proteins can quickly cause issues.
DVT can occur anywhere in the body but most often is found in the legs.
Symptoms range in intensity and include pain or aching, cramping, and sometimes warmth or color changes in the affected area. Edema is another common complication of DVT. However, some people with DVT may not experience noticeable symptoms at all. The most dangerous aspect of DVT is its ability to lead to other serious conditions, most notably pulmonary embolism.
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DVT VA rating
The VA rates DVT under diagnostic code 7121 in the Schedule of Ratings for “post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology.” The VA rates most venous disorders under this code. A veteran’s rating under 7121 is based on the severity of their symptoms, including the level of swelling (edema), stasis pigmentation (discoloration), hardening (subcutaneous induration), and leaking or discharge (ulceration).
How veterans get service connection for DVT
Unique aspects of military service can increase the risk of DVT and blood clots in veterans. Military personnel can find themselves inactive for long periods during lengthy flights or transportation in cramped conditions. The lack of movement can slow down blood circulation, increasing the likelihood of clot formation in deep veins. Combat or training-related injuries, especially those requiring surgery, can damage veins and increase the risk of DVT and blood clots.
DVT and related conditions
Your DVT may also be the result of another condition connected to your service. The following conditions are either caused by or known to cause DVT.
DVT and pulmonary embolism
One problem veterans may develop due to their DVT is chronic pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolisms (PE) can occur when a blood clot travels to the lungs. This may cause shortness of breath, dizziness, rapid heartbeat and breathing, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
When DVT and pulmonary embolisms co-occur, it is called venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Veterans who experience chronic pulmonary embolism as a result of their service-connected DVT may be owed additional compensation from the VA. The VA rates the condition under diagnostic code 6817 for pulmonary vascular disease at either 0%, 30%, 60%, or 100% disabling.
DVT and orthopedic conditions
Veterans dealing with obesity and weight gain are at a greater risk of developing DVT. This can in turn lead to orthopedic problems, particularly in the knees and back. Veterans who can service connect their DVT may be eligible for additional monthly compensation for related back and knee problems.
DVT and cancer
Cancer, which is not uncommon among veterans exposed to military chemicals like Agent Orange, can increase a veteran’s risk of blood clotting and DVT. Some cancer treatments, especially chemotherapy, can also increase the likelihood of clotting.
DVT and sleep problems
Some studies suggest there may be a relationship between DVT and sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea. Sleep apnea has been researched as a significant risk factor in developing DVT.
DVT and mood disorders
Different mental health disorders can increase a veteran’s likelihood of developing DVT. Depression and anxiety may play a role, but research has not currently found a strong link. However, a review of 16 studies found psychotic and bipolar disorders in particular may significantly increase a person’s chances of developing DVT.
TDIU for DVT
Symptoms of DVT can make it challenging to find and keep work. Veterans with DVT may struggle to sit and stand comfortably. They may also be more likely to experience mental health and sleep disorders that can make working even more difficult, if not impossible.
Veterans with DVT or other service-connected conditions that prevent them from maintaining “substantially gainful employment” may be entitled to total disability based on individual unemployability (TDIU) benefits.
TDIU provides a pathway for veterans to receive the same compensation as a 100% rating, even when their symptoms do not meet the criteria for a schedular 100% rating.
To be eligible for TDIU, veterans must typically have:
- At least one service-connected disability rated at least 60% OR
- Two or more service-connected disabilities, with one condition rated at least 40% and a combined rating of at least 70%.
Veterans who do not meet schedular TDIU criteria can sometimes qualify for the benefit.
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How Woods & Woods can help
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Frequently asked questions
Unique aspects of military service can increase the risk of DVT in veterans. Military personnel can find themselves inactive for long periods during lengthy flights or transportation in cramped conditions. The lack of movement can slow down blood circulation, increasing the likelihood of clot formation in deep veins. Combat or training-related injuries, especially those requiring surgery, can damage veins and increase the risk of DVT and blood clots. Cancer, which is not uncommon among veterans exposed to chemicals like Agent Orange or toxins in burn pits, as well as some cancer treatments like chemotherapy, can also increase the likelihood of clotting.
Symptoms of DVT can make it challenging to keep working. Veterans with DVT that prevents them from maintaining “substantially gainful employment” may be entitled to TDIU benefits. Veterans may also experience other service-connectable conditions related to their DVT that may make them eligible for TDIU. These include pulmonary embolism, mental health disorders, and sleep conditions.
Neil Woods
Neil Woods is a VA disability attorney and the owner and president of Woods & Woods. He received his law degree from Western Michigan University.
