Claiming Varicose Veins Secondary to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals
How to file a VA disability claim for Varicose Veins as a secondary condition to your service-connected Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals. 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: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals → Varicose Veins
NEXUS STRENGTH
moderate
COMMONLY GRANTED
Yes
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 Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals caused or worsened your Varicose Veins.
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals Leads to Varicose Veins
Primary Condition: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Varicose Veins
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Varicose Veinsis "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals. This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Varicose Veins. VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals 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 Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals symptoms led to or worsened your Varicose Veins. Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Varicose Veins 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
File Your Varicose Veins Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Varicose Veins evidence, link it to your Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.