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Gulf War Syndrome is a complex condition affecting thousands of veterans who served in the Persian Gulf. This term is used to describe a range of largely unexplained illnesses linked to those who served in the 1991 Gulf War. Characterized by a range of unexplained symptoms, this condition has left many veterans searching for answers and support. The good news is that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes Gulf War Syndrome as a basis for disability compensation.
For veterans living in Virginia, understanding your eligibility and how to navigate the claims process is essential. Whether you served in Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, or another part of the Southwest Asia theater, you may qualify for benefits—even if your symptoms didn’t appear until years after your service. Let our experienced VA disability lawyers advise you of your options.
What is Gulf War Syndrome?
Gulf War syndrome—also referred to as Gulf War illness—is not a singular disease, but a series of symptoms impacting thousands of veterans who have previously served in the Persian Gulf. The syndrome encompasses a wide range of symptoms, many of which appear entirely unrelated to one another. Some examples include:
· Joint pain
· Muscle aches
· Memory lapses
· Dizziness
· Headaches
· Insomnia
· Fatigue
For years, little was known about the cause of these symptoms, which seemed largely unrelated to each other. However, a 2022 study suggests that all of these symptoms are directly related to exposure to the chemical weapon known as sarin. This gas was released after the bombing of chemical weapon production facilities in Iraq.
Regardless of the specific cause, the federal government has acknowledged the existence of Gulf War syndrome, making those who live with it eligible for compensation. Our VA disability lawyers can answer your questions and assist you if your claim is denied.
Who Is Eligible for Gulf War-Related VA Benefits?
Not everyone who exhibits these symptoms is eligible for VA disability benefits. To qualify, veterans must meet specific service and medical criteria related to serving in the Persian Gulf.
The VA recognizes that many veterans who served in the Gulf War have developed a range of chronic, unexplained symptoms that can significantly impact their daily lives. These veterans may be eligible for compensation even without a specific medical diagnosis. This is thanks to the VA’s presumptive service connection rules. When a service connection is presumed, a veteran does not have to directly link their illness to an event that occurred during their military career. This can simplify the claims process substantially.
Service Requirements
To be eligible, you must have served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations during the Gulf War period, which began on August 2, 1990 and continues to the present day for VA purposes. Qualifying locations include:
· Iraq
· Kuwait
· Saudi Arabia
· Bahrain
· Qatar
· United Arab Emirates
· Oman
· The Gulf of Aden and the Persian Gulf
· The Red Sea
· The airspace above each of these areas
Medical Requirements:
Your symptoms must be chronic, meaning they last six months or more. They must also be unexplained by any known medical condition. The symptoms must also result in at least a 10% disability according to the VA’s rating schedule.
If you meet the service criteria and are living with persistent, unexplained health issues, it’s worth exploring a Gulf War-related VA disability claim. Let a VA disability lawyer answer any questions you might have about this process.
How to File a VA Disability Claim for Gulf War Syndrome
Filing a VA disability claim for Gulf War Syndrome requires a careful combination of medical evidence, military service documentation, and persistence. Because Gulf War Syndrome often involves medically unexplained symptoms—such as chronic fatigue, memory loss, joint pain, and gastrointestinal issues—the VA has special rules that make it easier for qualifying veterans to receive benefits under a presumptive service connection.
To begin, it’s important to ensure your symptoms have persisted for at least six months and are not explained by a formal diagnosis. Medical records should clearly document these issues, and a healthcare provider should note that no underlying condition can account for them. The more detailed and consistent your medical history, the stronger your claim.
In addition to medical evidence, your claim must show that you served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations any time after August 2, 1990. Your DD-214 or other service records can help confirm this. Once your documentation is ready, you can file your claim online through the VA’s website, by mail, or in person at a regional VA office.
After submitting your claim, you may be scheduled for a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. This exam helps the VA assess how your symptoms affect your daily life and determine your disability rating. Be honest and detailed about your limitations.
VA Medical Centers and Vet Centers in Virginia
Virginia is home to several VA Medical Centers and Vet Centers that provide essential services to veterans, including those affected by Gulf War Syndrome. These facilities offer medical treatment, mental health counseling, disability claim assistance, and specialized support—all at no cost to eligible veterans.
VA Medical Centers in Virginia
· Hampton VA Medical Center
· Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center
· Salem VA Medical Center
· Washington DC VA Medical Center
Vet Centers in Virginia:
· Alexandria Vet Center
· Norfolk Vet Center
· Richmond Vet Center
· Roanoke Vet Center
· Virginia Beach Vet Center
· Charlottesville Vet Center
These centers provide confidential support for a variety of issues veterans face, including Gulf War syndrome. They offer numerous treatment options depending on the nature and severity of your condition.
Reach Out to a VA Disability Lawyer at Gang & Associates Today
Disability benefits through the VA could change your life forever. Even if you were previously denied, you have the right to file an appeal. The good news is that at the appellate level, you also have the opportunity to hire our VA disability lawyers to guide you. Reach out to Gang & Associates today for a free case review.