WingmanOpen the free toolsWingmanOpen the free toolsIf the VA already service-connected your type 2 diabetes mellitus (also called diabetes, type 2 diabetes, diabetes mellitus, DM2), it can cause or worsen other conditions that are ratable on their own. These "secondary" claims are where many veterans leave money on the table. Below is what a service-connected type 2 diabetes mellitus commonly leads to, why, and what evidence each one takes.
A secondary claim only works if the primary condition (type 2 diabetes mellitus) is already service-connected, and you have a nexus — a doctor's opinion that it is "at least as likely as not" the cause. More on nexus letters →
High blood sugar damages nerves, most often in the feet and hands. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is one of the most commonly granted diabetes secondaries; each affected extremity is rated separately.
What you'd need: A neuropathy diagnosis (often with monofilament testing or EMG) and documentation tying it to the service-connected diabetes.
Diabetes damages the blood vessels of the retina. Retinopathy is a classic, well-recognized diabetes complication and is rated on visual impairment.
What you'd need: An eye exam diagnosing diabetic retinopathy and a note linking it to the service-connected diabetes.
Diabetes damages the nerves and blood vessels needed for erections, making ED one of the most common diabetes complications. Service connection unlocks SMC-K even at a 0% rating.
What you'd need: An ED diagnosis and documentation linking it to the service-connected diabetes.
Long-standing diabetes damages the kidneys. Nephropathy is a recognized complication rated under renal dysfunction criteria.
What you'd need: Lab evidence of kidney dysfunction (proteinuria, reduced eGFR) and a note linking it to the service-connected diabetes.
Diabetes and diabetic kidney damage frequently drive up blood pressure; the VA recognizes hypertension secondary to diabetes.
What you'd need: Documented blood pressure readings and a nexus opinion tying the hypertension to the service-connected diabetes (especially where nephropathy is present).
Diabetes accelerates atherosclerosis and raises the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.
What you'd need: A cardiac diagnosis (imaging/stress test) and a medical opinion linking it to the service-connected diabetes.