Sleep apnea secondary to PTSD VA disability nexus letters from Todd Finnerty, Psy.D.

You can get a nexus letter for sleep apnea secondary to PTSD for a VA disability claim from psychologist Dr. Todd Finnerty. Learn more at www.toddfinnert... or www.nexusletter...
...and you can check out all of my books on Amazon including my book on Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD here: amzn.to/2hWRpLR

[@nexusletters]

You can find my book, Sleep apnea secondary to PTSD, on Amazon here: amzn.to/3AHqqyF

[@redelao]

Good afternoon Dr., I need a nexus letter for Sleep apnea secondary to mood disorder depression anxiety already service connected. What would be the step to get in contact with you.

[@nexusletters]

@@redelao If you fill out the form at my website Nexusletters.com my assistant will send you some information including a link where you can upload your records to me securely, thanks

[@cybergroupie4407]

I can attest to your knowledge and expertise to this issue for veterans. You provided a nexus letter for my husband, which in turn the VA awarded his 50% for sleep apnea, which pushed him to his 100% and eventually to his Permanent and Total. I appreciate your service to helping the veterans. 💖

[@jslack8973]

Can you email me at [e-mail] ? I have a question because I claimed Sleep apnea secondary to PTSD but I Don’t have anything in my medical records from active duty. Was that your husband’s situation?

[@traveltrucker561]

@@jslack8973 u need to take a at home sleep study and they will make it secondary if test comes back moderate or severe

[@jslack8973]

@@traveltrucker561 I took a test in the clinic and it came back severe OSA and they still denied me

[@traveltrucker561]

@@jslack8973 it’s something you did wrong cuz myself and others got 50% secondary to PTSD had the C&P examiner told us soon as we got to the appointment

[@jslack8973]

@@traveltrucker561 I sent in a Nexus statement but I think the company is sorry as hell. They put as least likely as not… when I looked into that some vets say that’s not what was written in their nexus statement and that it means less than 50 percent chance that ptsd caused sleep apnea. I believe you though

[@teddymccall1]

Thank you for helping Vets!

[@greenlight6913]

Dr. Todd was 100% correct. I won thanks to Dr. Finnerty

[@huntingtc0011]

what did you win? just curious

[@barryN69]

I filed mine secondary to depression tinnitus and migraines w imo from vet lawyer / doctor. . I use a cpap. Denied !! HLR. Denied. 3 ace exams. Denied. Now lawyer sent to BVA. Smh. So frustrated. Thanks for info.

[@nexusletters]

Thanks for this. There isn't much fairness in the sense that two Veterans with very similar cases can have dramatically different outcomes just based on the interpretation of the science from the C&P examiner and rater. The stats I've seen for BVA reflect that despite the fact that the case has been denied multiple times by that point, there is a double-digit approval rating (they find in favor of the Veteran). It would likely be cheaper and overall more ideal for everyone if a "correct" favorable finding was found earlier in the process, but sometimes it takes sticking with it. Sorry you're dealing with that.

[@yayagazab4449]

The sleep study for service-connection is only valid for 1 year so submit it asap after it is completed, otherwise you have to do it again & produce fresh results.

[@tlteal]

Just filled out the form and would appreciate a phone call. Diagnosed and awarded 50% for PTSD, but VA denied my claim for sleep apnea despite conducting a sleep study and conceding that I have sleep apnea --- say that it's not service related (frustrating). Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

[@andrewschwartz9386]

I just filled out the form too. Haven't filled for Sleep Apnea (diagnosed 2021and using CPAP) secondary to PTSD 50% yet. Looking to get a nexus as well to file shortly.

[@Ayhayh-pe8kk]

Dr. Finnerty did an AMAZING job on my Nexus Letter and DBQ form by incorporating multiple case law and medical literature references for Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD. Just waiting on a favorable decision from the VA to increase my already 80% service connected disability. Must admit, I too was somewhat skeptical on using this service but moving forward, I will be sharing his contact information with VETS needing Nexus and DBQ's. When contacting Dr. Finnerty he responds quickly; therefore, because of his expertise and being prompt we HIGHLY recommend Dr. Finnerty and would definitely use his services again!

[@POWERMINDS747]

How much did you pay for it?

[@bigtimepimpin666]

@@POWERMINDS747 Finnerty charges $600 for a Nexus letter. that is slightly less than the average. I sent him emails and called months ago and followed up about two months ago. His website is still up and he still advertises doing this service. But he has never responded to either my calls or emails. Maybe it's my last name or something, but he has been a complete shitbag in my experience. I needed that Mexus Letter for a Supplemental Claim. It.woukd have bumped me from 80% to the 90% bracket. The payments would have been retroactive for almost thirty months!! that's a lot of money. thanks Dr Finnerty, shitbird. About a week ago I sought out another expert on OSA and PTSD. Google "Singular Sleep Nexus letter." www.singularsleep.com/products/va-nexus-letter-records-review i paid and sent in my docs. It is $195 just to review my case and if the dr agrees there is a case to be made to link OSA and PTSD, he charges $650 for Nexus and another $300 for the DBQ, the questionnaire regarding how bad a ratable.condition is. But that's kind of pointless when it comes to OSA if the VA has issued you a CPAP since that fact makes it ratable at 50%. But that Mother Fucker has also not responded now. Again, I already paid and sent in my payment to review my documents. It supposedly takes 3 to 5 business days to get the case reviewed and an answer regarding if he is willing or not to write a Nexus Letter. so at this point I would say, either hire a firm that will represent you on all of your ratable issues, or hold off until.i can tell.you if i got screwed or not by Singular Sleep.

[@joshwestlake5458]

Did it get granted?

[@HurricaneTroy]

Have you written Nexus letters for Sleep Apnea secondary to service connected lower back injury/pain ....which caused weight gain and the meds to control back pain suppressing the airway?

[@thethreeminuteprepper4543]

Hi, I'm currently at 70%, 10% for tinnitus, 30% for Asthma (PACT ACT) and just got 50 % for PTSD all combat linked. Do you still help veterans?

[@usmcwasson4076]

I already have a nexus letter from my VA primary care doctor linking it to my PTSD and the VA still denied me.

[@nexusletters]

It can take multiple tries sometimes; if you are interested in a sample of what my letters tend to look like and the research they tend to address you can check that out on my website here: nexusletters.com/sleep-apnea-secondary-to-ptsd/

[@rudyardgomeas6042]

I read a hearing decision, where the judge stated the veteran claimed his sleep apnea was aggravated and not actually caused by PTSD. Judge granted his disability immediately. Just suggestion to use aggravated.

[@tylerjones6272]

This guy is really good. Thanks

[@BAD-wy1hg]

Just sent you a request on your website forgot to include insomnia. B Donnelly. Nexus needed asap..

[@pierrepedroharvey11]

I’ve been diagnosed with Major Depression Disorder service connected. Would i qualify as a client of yours for a nexus letter?

[@Dankphu]

I've seen a lot of videos about OSA. Is CENTRAL sleep apnea linked to PTSD as well?

[@BigDawg408]

I need a nexus letter I’m get in contact with you

[@ze_german2921]

Hello, i am rated 70% for ptsd with MST. My sleep study results were mild OSA with 2.3% snoring. If i secure a prescription for a APAC machine, would i have a favorable case for sleep apnea?

[@cidcampeador7922]

Not necessarily. I just talked to my VSO who went into VBMS and told me that the Examiner (a Nurse Practitioner) determined that my OSA (cpap prescribed) was "Less Than Likely caused by my PTSD" (70% connected) with obesity as an intermediate; even with a nexus letter. My next step is to get a letter from my sleep doctor stating that my PTSD condition aggravated my sleep apnea and not to use obesity or medications as intermediate and resubmit as a supplemental; I will appeal if my supplemental is denied.

[@dblack8262]

What about Depression Secondary to Sleep Apnea?

[@stevejackson6336]

I had an inservice event where a guy died. 30 Years later I am diagnosed with PTSD by a VA doctor. Do I need a nexus letter from him or another doctor? I cannot find in the doctor records where the VA doctor stated it was military connected . It just states PTSD . Thank you for your time-

[@nexusletters]

Keeping in mind that I'm not an accredited rep/attorney and don't know all the details (you can sign up for a free, private phone consult with me on my website): Since you have a diagnosis that should trigger the VA's duty to assist and they would send you to an initial PTSD C&P exam the VA would pay for and they'd be asked for a medical opinion related to the nexus.

[@MichaeljGlory]

why is your license not been updated on your cv?

[@nexusletters]

I think my CV just has when I was first licensed as a psychologist listed admittedly, it renews every two years

[@mcneilfajardo1820]

Hello. I am a veteran. How can i set an appointment with you doctor?

[@nexusletters]

@@mcneilfajardo1820 check out nexusletters.com and toddfinnerty.com/schedule.html

[@shaunpbryant]

How much does a Nexus cost for sleep apnea secondary to ptsd?

[@nexusletters]

$600. You can see the details at nexusletters.com

[@patrickstoryii3387]

My wife believes I have sleep apnea, I am sitting at 80% with ptsd mixed in there. How do I start the process of getting diagnosed and then filing that? Getting nexus and such?

[@nexusletters]

Speak with your doctor about getting a referral for a sleep study/home sleep apnea test. There are also some online providers you could find who could order a test for you that would be mailed to your house.

[@oldArmyVet]

I major depression and anxiety would sleep apnea be a secondary to that as well

[@nexusletters]

@@oldArmyVet sure, it could be

[@margaretcarpenter1215]

How do we get in touch with yuo

[@nexusletters]

There is a referral form on my website nexusletters.com for reaching out the first time. If a phone call is needed there is a link on my website to my online scheduler where people can schedule free phone call appointments. I do have email but my inbox is a bit of a mess at the moment so there will be delays in responding to email, so that may not always be the best option at this point.

[@cidcampeador7922]

Good afternoon Dr. I'm rated 70% for PTSD, obese, and was diagnosed by a private sleep Dr. with OSA and a cpap was prescribed as well. Now, my understanding is that using my obesity as an intermediate for OSA secondary to PTSD may give me a higher chance of a rating for OSA. Is this what you have seen in the past? Thanks.

[@nexusletters]

Sure, we have research that supports that PTSD can certainly impact eating behaviors and activity levels (which can lead to obesity).

[@cidcampeador7922]

@@nexuslettersGot denied even with a nexus letter. It’s funny how my ptsd contributed to my weight gain as stated in the letter, but VA didn’t even consider it. The decision letter stated my OSA is caused by my obesity but still got it denied even using obesity as an intermediate. SMH

[@nexusletters]

@@cidcampeador7922 It can often take more than one attempt; it makes sense to stick with it based on what I've seen. Here is some of the research/ statements I tend to use when applicable: nexusletters.com/sleep-apnea-secondary-to-ptsd/

[@hansifrancis710]

Have a sleep study coming up soon. Testing for Sleep Apnea. I am diagnosed with 30% PTSD. Is it possible to get a NEXUS from you?

[@nexusletters]

Sure, once your sleep study results come back (I will need those). Thanks

[@robertbarnes4887]

I am service connected with mental health issues as well as back and tinnitus. My diagnoses was Ptsd however the vba did not word as such in my rating. I have also even more recently been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea from a sleep study but it was still a few years back. I loved my kids mother as the cpap bothered her she moved out of our bed room. This bothered me and I figured if I would stop using the machine she would come back in our room. However it did not happen as our relationship got distant from it. We are no longer together so I have picked up using the cpap again. But this time I was told I should get a secondary ratting for it. I am now in that process but there was no link stated to link any of my conditions im service connected for to sleep apnea. Nore has any Dr. Stated that do to my issues is the reason I gained weight. I don't leave my house unless I have to. I don't even go out and play with my yound kids as much as I should because I start to hurt and I get tired easily. I was told a nexus letter is required for me to get where it says these things are likely than not/ more likely than not/ or most likely. Even tho everything looks good from my statements dont mean its a set in ston thing even the c&p examiner was kinda surprised to question this process with there already being a sleep study already done and me getting a cpap for about 4 years now. However, I feel as if I will still not get any professional coming out just to say thoes words to undoubtedly link them to sleep apnea even tho my psychologist has been talking to me for a while to encourage me to pick back up using my cpap machine. She works directly for the VA and I don't know if it will put her job on the line just for speaking to get me connected with this issue. I just droped off the form to the place that did the sleep study and diagnosis but they moved even further away and I stoped seeing them when I stoped using the cpap do to my kids mother. So hopefully they actually help me out by doing the form. But if not I may have to go to another doctor to get a nexus letter but if I do I dont know what all documents they need to see to verify as well as if they will have to get paid in order to do the nexus letter or will I just be able to drop it off and pick it up whenever there ready no cost to me I realize this is a service that they are giving so they should get paid but I only make about $1,300 a month and I pay $730 a month for rent as I take care of my two kids full time. So I'm disappointed to ask that of them because they deserve to get paid at the same time. So if I do what do you think I should do? Your a doctor and I would like to know your opinion on the situation.

[@nexusletters]

If you'd like to move forward, there is of course no guarantee that you'd win your claim, but if you do it would increase your monthly income. The cost for a nexus letter with me is $600 due in advance, but the PayPal checkout offers a Pay Later option where you can pay that in 4 interest free installments. If you would like to learn more checkout my website at nexusletters.com, thanks

[@pmelchman]

I was denied b/c "no medical evidence to support causative relationship between PTSD and interrupted sleep with snoring."

[@kobeplayeddefensetoo1351]

What about anexity? I'm not services connected for PTSD, but I do have an appeal hold for it.

[@nexusletters]

There is research we can use for anxiety as well. Feel free to fill out the form on nexusletters.com if you're interested; thanks

[@kobeplayeddefensetoo1351]

@@nexusletters will do.

[@kobeplayeddefensetoo1351]

@@nexusletters I did call the number tonight but nobody answered. I will call tomorrow to get more info etc. Thanks

[@1voiceinthecrowd]

How does one reach out for a consult?

[@nexusletters]

I have gotten a bit behind on responding to people, sorry, but the best way is to fill out the form at NexusLetters.com

[@1voiceinthecrowd]

Just did. Left a voice message right before as well. Reach back anytime.

[@jslack8973]

I had one done by Vet Resource Group LLC and it didn’t help me . I assume it’s because I didn’t have anything in my active duty records maybe? Is that accurate? I don’t know how. I’m just been denied & currently need to appeal.

[@nexusletters]

That is more relevant to directly connecting sleep apnea to your time in service rather than secondarily to an already service connected PTSD. Though truthfully, C&P examiners will write the darndest things sometimes.

[@matthewjacobs141]

What % of those Apnea> PTSD are approved/granted?

[@cidcampeador7922]

It's hard to tell. All depends on how the damn rater wakes up that morning.

[@Reamy86]

Hello there.... Can sleep apnea be secondary to major depressive disorder?

[@nexusletters]

I think you can make a case on that one - depending on the specifics of your case; feel free to reach out to me at [e-mail]

[@josephsassone3753]

I've heard being obese will hurt your claim. Is that true?

[@nexusletters]

This is a great question, and I will do something related to this whenever I get a chance to record my next video, thanks. Some people hear that being obese will hurt your claim, while other people hear that you can only get sleep apnea secondary to a psych condition if that psych condition made you obese. I don't agree with either extreme truthfully. What I have seen related to that that can hurt your claim is a C&P examiner that essentially just copies and pastes a laundry list of risk factors that may or may not be related to your own medical evidence (with obesity topping that list of risk factors). The examiner never addresses the fact that psych conditions by definition can impact eating behaviors/emotional eating and reduce activity levels/exercise which can lead to obesity. The examiner then uses an inappropriate burden of proof that reads like requiring definitive 100% causitive /proof of causation between the two, rather than the actual burden of proof of getting to a coin flip of at least as likely as not. So really what hurts claims the most (assuming the person has the diagnosis) is probably a C&P examiner who has a mind that is closed to the evidence. It is funny that I have now seen countless C&P rationales where the examiner essentially said sleep apnea is "caused" by the "risk factor" of obesity, yet applied a higher burden of proof on the evidence to something like PTSD. That isn't even the punchline though: In those countless C&P's where the examiner said it was due to obesity the Veteran had a normal BMI at their sleep study. Then the rating decision actually gave weight to the C&P opinion because they did a "thorough" review of the evidence. You can't make this stuff up. Thanks for the question.

[@josephsassone3753]

Thank you for answering my question, Dr. Finnerty. It was most detailed and informative.​@@nexusletters

[@charleslawhon4047]

Can you help me with my severe case of sleep apnea/ PTSD ! 2013 was diagnosed with severe case of sleep apnea at the Amarillo VA Hospital with a sleep study fitted for a CPAP machine but my claim was denied ! Than in 2019 was awarded PTSD claim ! Want to combine both claims on a secondary claim !

[@nexusletters]

Sure, check out my website at nexusletters.com for more details, thanks

[@dannichols67]

Hi Dr. I have 70% disability rating for 'generalized anxiety disorder with panic disorder and agoraphobia'. Most of the information I see regarding apnea secondary are related to PTSD. I have been out of the military for many years and 4 years ago took a sleep study at a non-VA doctor and was prescribed a CPAP machine. Do you think I have a chance of getting approval for apnea as secondary to my primary disability?

[@nexusletters]

I have seen people get approved with mental health conditions other than PTSD. I don't have a meaningful way to quantify what the chances are, but there is relevant research.

[@ericbrooks3328]

could you write sleep apnea secondary to sinusitis?

[@nexusletters]

I am a psychologist so that really isn't in my area. You can see a list of other doctors on my website and one of them may be able to help nexusletters.com

[@theflyerpr40d]

Hi, Can you also do DBQ for increase? Thanks

[@nexusletters]

Sure, I will do DBQ's for psych-related issues. I typically only do them if I've performed an exam either in person or over Zoom though.

[@theflyerpr40d]

@@nexusletters thanks, I have not had one before at the office or over zoom. Im at 70% for PTSD. So not sure if I could qualify for a DBQ.

[@nexusletters]

@@theflyerpr40d other people will sometimes complete DBQs just based on a records review. If you wanted an exam you could always schedule one. I'd review the symptoms/requirements on the VA mental disorders rating schedule for total occupational and social impairment to see if you think you'd qualify. Let me know if you have other questions- you can email me at [e-mail] or give me a call; thanks

[@theflyerpr40d]

@@nexusletters Hi, I understand better now yes it would be over zoom or similar not just a record review. That good to know that it could be done. Thank you.

[@manuelpecos5173]

Hell Dr., I'm 70% rated for PTSD combat related and was denied for sleep apnea. Through research, I now see it can be claimed as a secondary. I attended a sleep study briefing while on AD and from there received the referral for the sleep study. The sleep study wasn't done until after I came off of AD but was still in the ARNG. Basically, the VA is denying me stating it's not service connected because the study was done at the VA after AD. Any advise on this?

[@nexusletters]

I'd be happy to help; feel free to email me at [e-mail] or call my cell at [phone], thanks

[@bhammonds8570]

I have service connected PTSD at 50%. I also have sleep apnea and it never crossed my mind it could very well be related to PTSD. My question is: Does the type of sleep apnea matter in trying to relate it to PTSD. I have obstructive sleep apnea.

[@nexusletters]

Yes, we can connect OSA; there is research literature on that.

[@jeusebio2413]

same here, have c&p exam next week

[@nexusletters]

@@jeusebio2413 good luck; let me know if you need anything

[@jeusebio2413]

@@nexusletters I feel they will deny me, I am not overweight i dont smoke, I already had a VA sleep study, and I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and getting fitted for a CPAP, I know they are there for the VA, already got denied for burn pit exposure even though i was diagnosed with sinusitis and have a ct scan today, i passed the 10 year mark by 2 months to make the claim so the decision was not service connected, I finally understand why vets hate the VA

[@nexusletters]

@@jeusebio2413 sorry. Stick with it.

[@bigtimepimpin666]

I've left messages to Dr Finnerty's cell phone (listed on his website) and sent emails. He does not respond to either. it seems he is a subject matter expert linking OSA to PTSD. I'm not sure what the hell happened.

[@nexusletters]

Sorry, I'm a bit behind on emails and phone calls (I am a little faster at responding to form submissions on my website but I am behind on those too). It has been busy. Also check your spam folder because my emails have been going there a lot.

[@teamsankey560]

Hello sir, I submitted a supplemental claim for my not service connected sleep apnea secondary to my service connected ptsd in March. I included a Nexus Letter from my civilian physician where he opined that my PTSD is aggravated by my OSA as well as a buddy letter from my fiancé. As of today they have made their decision and I see that my rating has NOT increased yet which pretty much means it was denied. The decision letter was sent today so I have not seen it yet but on va.gov and Ebenefits my ratings still remains at 90. I am most definitely in need of your assistance.

[@Ampsandboots]

Hi I sent an email months ago. Did you ever receive it?

[@nexusletters]

I can't seem to find it, sorry. Could you send it again? I had some issues with my email provider and switched hosting, but truthfully I haven't always been the best at keeping email organized (which is why I'm trying to hire an assistant at the moment). Thanks and sorry

[@Ampsandboots]

@@nexusletters Ok i will send you another email.

[@trell8416]

How do i contact you? I have sleep apnea and ptsd.

[@nexusletters]

The best way is to fill out the info on the referral form on my website at www.nexusletters.com but my email and cell are on there too; thanks

[@anthonygrant2902]

Dr. Finnerty, I would greatly appreciate your medical opinion. Could receiving 18 or more injections in my knee, along with medications, lead to Sleep Apnea? Alternatively, could an assault involving someone running my forehead into a concert wall cause Sleep Apnea? Your expertise in this matter would be invaluable.

[@nexusletters]

Admittedly my expertise is centered on the impact of psychological conditions on it, you could try a medical person such as one from this list nexusletters.com/list-of-doctors-who-write-nexus-letters/

[@nexusletters]

Sorry, I missed the bottom part of the comment. I am out of town with limited Internet. Assault definitely can cause PTSD

[@bunbowsky4833]

I got denied sleep apnea secondary to PTSD because the examiner said my PTSD is self diagnosed. Wow!!! I have a VA rating for PTSD.

[@nexusletters]

Yikes, that is a particularly annoying one. If you're looking for a nexus letter you you can learn more on my website www.nexusletters.com thanks

[@bunbowsky4833]

@@nexusletters I have a nexus letter a very strong one.

[@nexusletters]

@@bunbowsky4833 good. Keep at it.

[@weatherman8123]

I have 70% major depression. I was just diagnosed sleep apnea by the VA and issued a CPAP. I feel like my Major depression has make me less active and caused weight etc....resulting in my sleep apena to form.

[@briangreene4277]

Great info Dr. question: I had a sleep study done June 2013, using VA cpap machine for last 8 yrs, have svc connect ptsd 50% , do I have a good shot getting DBQ signed off via VA w/o nexus ltr thru the process - sleep apnea secondary to ptsd

[@nexusletters]

I can't comment specifically on yours since I haven't seen your records. You'll need some way of connecting the two. One option is to hope that the VA sends you to a C&P and then hope that the C&P examiner will agree with you. However, some either are unfamiliar with the science or take a very strict view of it despite the fact that Veterans have a lower burden of proof. In order to have evidence that makes the connection (and addresses any conflicting opinions) you could get a nexus letter.

[@cortezbaylor1054]

I've been denied for Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD, I'm in a higher level review phase now.

[@nexusletters]

Good luck. I often write letters for Veterans on appeal. You can see the types of evidence I tend to include here nexusletters.com/sleep-apnea-secondary-to-ptsd/

[@cortezbaylor1054]

@@nexusletters I just had my C&P exam Friday I don't feel great about it because the doctor has no psychological experience. If this doesn't go my way I would love to work with you on putting together a supplemental.

[@s.carter1646]

I also have Asthma. Served in the Gulf War

[@BAD-wy1hg]

Submit intent to file.. pact act

[@walterbrewster647]

I paid you $600.00 for a Lexus letter on August 2nd 2024. I still have not received any letter. I have called your office over 8 times in the last two weeks. Sir what is going on?

[@toddwatson6288]

Wow. Did You get it ?

[@walterbrewster647]

@@toddwatson6288 yes

[@phototec]

Lots of theses YouTubbers claiming to want to help veterans, are reawlly in ths justt for the money! Case in point...

[@joelstark6231]

Will you automatically be denied for being over weight

[@nexusletters]

No, but sometimes C&P examiners make strange conclusions related to being overweight. That is why I always address it and any impact a psych condition may have had on it (there is lots of evidence that psych conditions can lead to weight gain).

[@joelstark6231]

How can I use your services? I now have 70% ptsd and gained a lot of weight over the course of 2 years because of it

[@nexusletters]

@@joelstark6231 check me out at www.NexusLetters.com