Migraine Increase Denied. Suggestions Please.

[K9MAL]

I was originally awarded 30% in 2002 for tension headaches with features of migraines. I've been seeing a VA neurologist for the past year and a half and my headaches have gotten progressively worse, this is documented in my VA medical records.

I had to quit my job due to absences and the inability to travel as frequently as the job necessitated. I decided to apply for Ch. 31 educational benefits and was approved due to service connected disabilities requiring me to quit my job. I'm currently a "full-time student" but my schedule is quite minimal. Tuesday I have 3 classes throughout the day and I have 1 morning class on Wednesday and Thursday, that's it.

I know that the frequency and the severity of my headaches meets the standard for 50% under the rating code. However, the response from the VA was as follows:

We reviewed the evidence received and determined your service-connected condition hasn't increased in severity sufficiently to warrant a higher evaluation. Records show you have maintained employment and are now a full time student. The records and your statements do not support a finding of severe economic in adaptability due to headaches.

Is this worth filing a NOD? Is the fact that I'm attending classes going to result in me being denied again or is it worth pursuing? If I provide my limited school schedule and the records from my neuro would this suffice? Not sure if this is worth pursuing or not and would appreciate advice from the experts here at hadit.

Thank you!

[justrluk]

You are welcome. There are all sorts of success stories on this site and all written from a slightly different perspective. Write the way you are comfortable communicating and you'll be more effective. Also, don't forget about the accommodation at school. It's a real life (and grade) saver.

[NavyWife]

You've got nothing to lose by emailing Bob McDonald. Maybe they can fix it for you without you having to wait years and years for a correct decision.

[K9MAL]

You've got nothing to lose by emailing Bob McDonald. Maybe they can fix it for you without you having to wait years and years for a correct decision.

Getting everything ready to do that today. Thanks for more great advice NW! :)

[K9MAL]

FYI - Anyone in the future reading this should know that I did in fact get 50% for migraines. It is possible!

[TiredCoastie]

FYI - Anyone in the future reading this should know that I did in fact get 50% for migraines. It is possible!

Congratulations! I was also recently increased to 50% for migraines, so let me echo that it is possible!

[justrluk]

Sorry for the condition, but glad your level of life-impact is finally acknowledged.