Claiming Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals Secondary to Cardiomyopathy
How to file a VA disability claim for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals as a secondary condition to your service-connected Cardiomyopathy. This guide covers the medical nexus, evidence requirements, and how a secondary claim can increase your combined rating.
This is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with a VSO or accredited claims agent.
Medical Nexus: Cardiomyopathy → Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals
NEXUS STRENGTH
weak
COMMONLY GRANTED
Varies
CLAIM TYPE
Secondary
What is a Secondary VA Disability Claim?
A secondary condition is a disability that was caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition. Under 38 CFR § 3.310, the VA will grant service connection for a secondary condition if you can show a medical relationship (nexus) between your already service-connected condition and the new condition.
In this case, you would claim that your service-connected Cardiomyopathy caused or worsened your Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals.
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How Cardiomyopathy Leads to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals
Primary Condition: Cardiomyopathy
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residualsis "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected Cardiomyopathy. This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals. VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have Cardiomyopathy rated as service-connected. If not, file for that first or file both claims simultaneously.
4. Personal Statement
A detailed statement (VA Form 21-4138) describing how your Cardiomyopathy symptoms led to or worsened your Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals. Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals as a secondary condition will increase your combined VA disability rating using VA math. Here are 2026 monthly rates by rating:
30% Rating
$552.47
/month
50% Rating
$1,132.90
/month
70% Rating
$1,808.45
/month
Other Conditions Secondary to Cardiomyopathy
File Your Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals evidence, link it to your Cardiomyopathy claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.