Eczema is a skin condition that can cause severe itching, bleeding, burning, drainage, and blisters. Severe cases of eczema can lead to infection. Eczema can develop due to exposure to chemicals, detergents, cleaning solutions, and other allergens. Frequent exposure to cold, dry weather can also trigger eczema. In the military, exposure to these irritants and conditions is often unavoidable and can lead to chronic skin conditions that are painful and debilitating and can interfere with daily life and activities. If you are suffering from a condition such as eczema and it is a result of your service in the military, contact an attorney to see if you qualify for disability benefits.
How the VA Rates Eczema
If your eczema is service-related and impacts your ability to work and enjoy life, you may be able to recover disability benefits. The VA rates eczema based on the frequency that medication is needed to treat the condition. Another factor in the rating is if the eczema affects only a small portion of your body, such as an area on your hand, or if it affects a large portion of your body.
Depending on the severity of your condition, treatment for eczema may consist of the following:
- Corticosteroids
- Phototherapy
- Retinoids
- Biologics
- Photochemotherapy
- PUVA and Immunosuppressive Drugs
The following ratings for eczema:
- 0% rating. If you have not needed treatment other than topical medication for the past year and the eczema affects less than 5% of your body, your rating will be 0%.
- 10% rating. A 10% rating is given if the eczema affects at least 5% of your body and requires treatment and medication.
- 30% rating. A 30% rating is given if the eczema affects at least 20 to 40% of your body, and treatment and medication are needed.
- 60% rating. A 60% rating is given if the eczema affects at least 40% of your body and requires constant treatment and medication for the past year.
You will need to prove the following in order to receive benefits:
- Diagnosis of eczema by a medical professional
- That the condition is service-related and is due to an injury, illness, or exposure you sustained during your time in the military
- There is a medical link between the event that happened in service and your diagnosis of eczema
We Can Help With Your Claim
If you have questions about qualifying for disability benefits for a condition such as eczema, contact the office of Sean Kendall, Attorney-at-Law for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced disability benefits attorneys can help with your claim and make sure you get the full amount of compensation you deserve.
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