Asthma from Burn Pits: Filing VA Claims

Burn Pits and Asthma: What You Need to Know

If you served in Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere burn pits were used, you’ve probably heard about toxic exposure. What you might not know is how it could affect your VA disability claim, especially if you’ve developed asthma. Since the PACT Act expanded presumptive conditions for burn pit exposure, more vets are finally getting the ratings they deserve. But the VA won’t hand it over without proof.

Here’s the deal: asthma is now recognized as a condition linked to burn pit and other toxic exposures. That means if you’ve got asthma and served in a qualifying location, the VA may grant you service connection. But you’ve got to connect the dots and follow the process. Let’s break it down.

How the VA Rates Asthma

Asthma falls under the respiratory conditions category in the VA’s rating schedule. It’s rated under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6602. The VA looks at the severity of your symptoms and how often you need treatment. Ratings range from 10% to 100%, based on factors like:

• How often you need inhalers or other medication
• If you require systemic corticosteroids
• Spirometry results, like Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV-1)

For example, if your FEV-1 is between 71-80% of predicted, you’re looking at a 10% rating. If it’s below 40%, you’re in the 100% range. The more severe your symptoms, the higher your rating.

The VA will also consider hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and whether your condition interferes with work. Make sure your medical records document everything.

Proving Service Connection

To get asthma service-connected, you need three things:

1. A current diagnosis: You’ll need a formal diagnosis of asthma from a medical provider.
2. In-service exposure: If you were stationed near burn pits, the PACT Act may cover you. The VA presumes exposure for vets who served in qualifying locations.
3. A nexus: For presumptive conditions like asthma, the VA assumes the link. But if your case doesn’t fall under the PACT Act, you’ll need medical evidence connecting your asthma to service.

If you’re filing under the PACT Act, include proof of service in a qualifying area. For non-presumptive cases, a strong nexus letter from a doctor is essential.

Common Mistakes Veterans Make

• Not documenting symptoms: If your medical records don’t reflect the severity of your asthma, the VA won’t rate it accurately. Keep detailed records of meds, ER visits, and work impacts.
• Skipping the C&P exam: The Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is critical. This is where the VA evaluates your condition. Be honest, detailed, and stick to the facts.
• Assuming the VA will connect the dots: Even with the PACT Act, you’ve got to provide evidence. Don’t rely on the VA to do the legwork for you.

Your Action Plan

1. Step 1: Get a formal diagnosis of asthma from a doctor. Without this, the VA has no starting point.
2. Step 2: Gather evidence of burn pit or toxic exposure. Use service records, deployment orders, and anything else that proves you were in a qualifying location.
3. Step 3: Submit a claim through VA Form 21-526EZ. Include all supporting documents and get ready for the C&P exam.

Bottom Line

Asthma connected to burn pit exposure is finally getting the attention it deserves, but you’ve still got to put in the work. Get your diagnosis, gather your evidence, and file your claim the right way. Want the complete system? Win Your VA Disability Claim has everything you need for $19.97.