Service Connecting Migraines Secondary to PTSD

If you suffer from migraines secondary to PTSD, you may be entitled to additional VA compensation and benefits.  

A secondary service connection occurs when a current service-connected condition causes or aggravates another disability, expanding your ability to claim VA benefits.  

This post will explain the following: 

• The connection between migraines and PTSD 

• How the VA rates migraines secondary to PTSD 

• The importance of a nexus letter  

• How to prove service connection, and more  

Keep reading to learn more about how to claim migraines secondary to PTSD to help you on your journey to the benefits you rightfully deserve.  

Main Takeaways

• The VA ratings for migraines secondary to PTSD are 0%, 10%, 30%, and 50%, depending on the severity, duration, and frequency of your migraines.

• A nexus letter for migraines secondary to PTSD may help strengthen your VA claim, while adding credibility.  

• You must service-connect your secondary condition of migraines to your primary service-connection of PTSD to be eligible for VA benefits.  

Migraines and PTSD: What’s the Connection?

Migraines are headaches on one side of your head, causing throbbing and pulsing. On the other hand, post-traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s caused by an extremely stressful or terrifying event. But what’s the connection? 

According to the Association of Migraine Disorders, 69% of people with both episodic migraine and PTSD had PTSD-related symptoms prior to the onset of headaches. 

While researchers are still working on the exact link between PTSD and migraines, they have found the following connections between the two conditions: 

• Shared genes and biological pathways – Both conditions involve changes in brain chemistry and function. 

• Stress and hyperarousal – Veterans with PTSD frequently experience heightened stress, which can trigger migraines.  

• Sleep disturbances – Sleep disturbances can exacerbate PTSD symptoms, which can trigger migraine headaches.  

• Emotional and physical strain – PTSD’s emotional burden may trigger migraine headaches. 

• Environmental factors – Living in high-risk environments may exacerbate symptoms of PTSD and migraines.  

A 2011 study found that PTSD may greatly increase the impact of migraines, but that behavioral PTSD treatment alone can positively influence chronic pain conditions and disability.  

Note: Migraines are only one of the secondary conditions to PTSD, so it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns.  

Migraines Secondary to PTSD VA Ratings

The VA rates migraines under 38 CFR § 4.124a, Schedule of Ratings – Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders, Diagnostic Code (DC) 8100.  

The VA ratings for migraine headaches secondary to PTSD are 0%, 10%, 30%, and 50%. 

Note: Your VA rating for migraine headaches secondary to PTSD will depend on the severity, duration, and frequency of your migraines. 

Migraines Secondary to PTSD: Proving Service-Connection

The three essential elements that must be satisfied to service-connect migraines as a secondary condition to PTSD are:  

1. A current medical diagnosis of migraines   

2. Evidence of a service-connected primary disability (PTSD), AND  

3. Medical nexus evidence establishing a connection (nexus) between the current disability (migraines) as proximately due to, the result of, or aggravated by PTSD. This can be a nexus letter.

Note: Aggravation refers to the worsening of a non-service-connected condition due to a service-connected condition. 

Tips for Establishing a VA Secondary Connection

The VA claims process for secondary conditions is anything but straightforward; however, there are considerations when applying for VA benefits, including: 

1. Ensure you have consistent medical documentation. 

2. Obtain a high probative value nexus letter from a licensed healthcare provider.  

3. Consider a DBQ (disability benefits questionnaire), which may benefit your claim. 

4. Obtain lay statements from close family and friends. 

5. Submit a personal statement in support of your claim. 

Do I Need a Nexus Letter for Migraines Secondary to PTSD?

The VA doesn’t require nexus letters; however, we highly recommend obtaining a nexus letter for migraines secondary to PTSD.  

A nexus letter is a medical opinion that links your secondary condition (migraines) to your primary service-connected condition (PTSD).  

Nexus letters for secondary conditions help add credibility to your VA claim and may expedite your case. Although, it’s important to understand that nexus letters don’t guarantee service connection.  

Our team at Telemedica can help provide you with a nexus letter with high probative value from one of our licensed providers. 

4 Key Elements of a Nexus Letter

When submitting a nexus letter, ensure it has the following four key elements: 

1. The physician’s credentials, particularly ones that make them a trustworthy source for your current medical condition.  

2. A reference indicating that the physician composing the letter has thoroughly reviewed the veteran’s medical and military records about the claim.  

3. The physician’s opinion regarding the cause of the current diagnosed condition and its relation to the veteran’s military service.  

4. Medical rationale that fully supports the physician’s opinion. 

Generally, one nexus letter per VA claim is sufficient; however, you can submit multiple nexus letters from different physicians, particularly if you have a complex case.  

Filing a VA Claim for Migraines Secondary to PTSD

When you have your official medical diagnosis of migraines, you can begin filing your VA claim. (If you don’t have a medical diagnosis for your secondary condition, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.) 

You can file your VA claim for migraines secondary to PTSD online or download VA Form 21-526EZ and submit your application in one of the following ways: 

By mail to: 

Department of Veterans Affairs 
Claims Intake Center 
PO Box 4444 
Janesville, WI 53547-4444 

Via fax:  

Inside the U.S. (844) 531-7818  | Outside the U.S. (248) 524-4260 

In person:  

At your local VA regional office  

Note: If you plan to file for disability compensation using a paper form, you may want to submit an intent to file form first. This gives you time to gather your evidence while avoiding a later potential start date   

(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions

Does PTSD cause migraines?

No, PTSD doesn’t directly cause migraines. However, the stress and anxiety associated with PTSD can trigger migraine symptoms. You can help manage migraines by drinking enough water, using cold or warm compresses, and drinking ginger tea.  

Do I need a DBQ for migraines secondary to PTSD?

No, you don’t need to provide a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) with your VA disability claim for migraines secondary to PTSD. However, a DBQ may help support your VA claim by providing medical evidence from your health care provider.  

What is the cost of a nexus letter for secondary conditions?

The cost of a VA nexus letter for secondary conditions can vary based on several factors, including, but not limited to, the complexity of your case and the level of expertise of your medical professional.  

You may be able to get a nexus letter from your treating physician at no additional cost, particularly if you have a strong rapport with them.  

However, there might be associated fees if a specialized opinion is needed, such as from a medical specialist. 

Is there a time limit for filing a secondary service connection claim?

While there is no specific time limit for filing a secondary service connection claim, it’s best to file it as soon as possible after your secondary condition develops to ensure that you receive the maximum VA disability benefits available. 

Related Resources 

• Getting a Nexus Letter for Migraines Secondary to Tinnitus 
• Links Between PTSD and Migraines  
• Can Migraines Be Service Connected?

How Telemedica Can Help Your VA Disability Claim

Whether you need a nexus letter for migraines secondary to PTSD or something else, we make it EASY for veterans to connect with a licensed provider through our HIPAA-compliant telemedicine platform—anytime, anywhere!  

From DBQs and Nexus Letters to Psych Evals and Telemedicine Evaluations, the Telemedica team is standing by to serve you. Get the evidence you need to support your VA claim today. 

You can contact us with any questions; we will gladly assist you.