How a Nexus Letter Connects Secondary Conditions on Your VA Disability Claim
Veterans often know that they can file a VA disability claim for conditions directly related to their military service. But did you know that you can also receive compensation for conditions that are caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition? These are called secondary conditions, and they are just as important in the VA claims process.
At Patriot NEXUS Letters, we help veterans build strong claims by providing expert-written Nexus letters that clearly establish the medical connection between primary and secondary conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Secondary Service-Connected Conditions?
A secondary service-connected condition is a health issue that develops as a result of a primary condition that the VA has already deemed service-connected. For example:
- Sleep apnea caused by PTSD
- Hypertension linked to chronic pain
- Depression resulting from service-connected back injuries
- Erectile dysfunction caused by diabetes or medication side effects
- GERD triggered by anxiety or medication
These conditions weren’t directly caused by your time in the military, but they exist because of a primary service-connected disability — and they can significantly impact your quality of life.
Why You Need a Nexus Letter for Secondary Conditions
The VA requires medical evidence that clearly links the secondary condition to the primary one. That’s where a Nexus letter becomes essential.
A Nexus letter is a medical opinion written by a qualified healthcare provider who reviews your records and explains how one condition caused or aggravated another. This letter should include:
- A statement of the provider’s qualifications
- Review of the veteran’s medical and service history
- Medical rationale that explains how the secondary condition is related
- A clear statement of likelihood (e.g., “at least as likely as not”)
Without a Nexus letter, secondary claims are often denied due to lack of evidence.
Common Secondary Conditions That Need a Nexus Letter
Here are just a few examples of secondary conditions that can be service connected with the help of a Nexus letter:
| Primary Condition | Common Secondary Condition |
|---|---|
| PTSD | Sleep Apnea, GERD, Depression |
| Diabetes | Erectile Dysfunction, Neuropathy |
| Back Injury | Sciatica, Depression, Insomnia |
| TBI | Headaches, Anxiety, Sleep Issues |
| Knee Injuries | Hip or Spine Issues from Overcompensation |
Every case is unique, and a well-written Nexus letter can make or break your claim.
How Patriot NEXUS Letters Can Help
As a veteran-owned company, we understand firsthand how confusing and frustrating the VA system can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping our fellow veterans get the compensation they’ve earned.
Our services include:
- ✅ Free case evaluations – We identify primary and secondary conditions you might not even realize are connected
- ✅ Expert Nexus letters – Written by qualified healthcare professionals who understand VA language and rating systems
- ✅ Mental health evaluations – Supportive reports for PTSD, depression, and anxiety claims
👉 Learn more about our services here.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with a condition that developed because of another service-connected disability, you deserve to be compensated. A strong, evidence-based Nexus letter is the key to getting your claim approved.
Don’t leave benefits on the table. Reach out to Patriot NEXUS Letters today for a free consultation and let us help connect the dots in your VA disability claim.
📞 Call or text us today at 719-232-3026 for your free case evaluation.
