Resources for Veterans: More symptoms linked to Agent Orange

Hey Veterans, What’s Shakin’?

Did you know … the VA has added Atypical Parkinson’s-like symptoms to a list of Agent Orange-linked illness?

This will make U.S. military veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange eligible for the VA’s disability compensation benefits. Atypical Parkinsonism refers to any condition characterized by Parkinson’s-like symptoms – such as tremors, slow movement, impaired speech, or muscle stiffness – caused by health conditions or factors other than Parkinson’s hallmark progressive loss of nerve cells in the brain.

If you have essential tremors, you might be wondering what your VA rating will be. There are no specific VA disability rating criteria for essential tremors. However, VA will most likely rate your claim based on the median nerve paralysis diagnostic code 8515. They may give you a percentage assessment depending on the severity of your symptoms utilizing this code.

The higher the percentage rating, the more severe your tremors are and the more assistance you’ll need to perform daily tasks. You may receive a 10 percent rating if your tremors are mild incomplete. For moderate incomplete tremors, you may receive a 20-30 percent rating. And for severe incomplete tremors, you may receive a 40-50 percent rating.

Of course, every case is unique, and you will be rated based on the specific symptomology and your specific situation.

Come and see me to discuss your claim. Office hours vary, so give me a call at 701-302-8087 and I can set up a time and place to meet you at your convenience.

Julie Shrock, Eddy County Veteran Service Officer