What to Expect in a Sleep Apnea C&P Exam | VA Disability

In this video Leah provides an informative overview of what veterans can expect during a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for sleep apnea. She explains that these exams are primarily conducted by one of three main contractors and outlines the process of the exam, including possible paperwork and the types of healthcare professionals who might perform the evaluation. Leah details the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) and the kinds of questions veterans can expect, such as the type of sleep apnea, symptoms, use of CPAP or other devices, and the impact of the condition on daily life and work. She emphasizes that veterans can bring additional documents to support their case but reminds them that the examiner will not provide a medical opinion immediately.
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About:
At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.
The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.
Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.
Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.
Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.
⚠️ DISCLAIMER
This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.
#vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

[@Gen3ralGrimReaper]

She dropped some huge gems. I wish she was my compensation and pension examiner lol. Everything that she said I am actually experiencing

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am glad you enjoyed the content! I wish I could be everyone's C&P examiner!

[@Gen3ralGrimReaper]

I have a C&P exam in a few weeks for sleep apnea. I hope to be rated appropriately and with satisfaction. Thank you

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@Gen3ralGrimReaper Keep us posted!

[@Gen3ralGrimReaper]

@@prestigeveteranmedical I’m still waiting to hear from the VA. More backpay for me if they don’t hurry up

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@Gen3ralGrimReaper wow it has been a while on this one! Thank you for the update =-)

[@davidj7516]

Thank you very much. Trying to do a sleep study 48 years after service. But after Vietnam, nobody gave a crap, for decades. And I can tell you, a lot of VA staff still don't care. Thank you again.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching!

[@shimaze5479]

There is NO such thing as "trying to get a sleep study". All you have to do is tell your doctor why you believe that you need a sleep study and if the doctor agrees, the doctor will submit a request for a sleep study ...just that simple. Getting a sleep study done has NOTHING to do with the poor treatment of Vietnam veterans after the war. And the number of years between active duty in Vietnam and the need for a sleep study is irrelevant. Sleep apnea can develop long after leaving military service.

[@davidj7516]

@@shimaze5479 So you agree. You said it yourself, just a little different than me. "...if the doctor agrees"... If he/she doesn't agree, you don't get a sleep study.

[@shimaze5479]

@@davidj7516 If your doctor won’t order a sleep study, then you need to find another doctor! Complaints of snoring & other symptoms indicate the need for a CPAP machine and the only way to determine is a sleep study. Also, thank you for your service in Vietnam and sorry that you were treated very bad when you returned. Thankfully, your generation has made sure that didn’t happen to my generation.

[@shotkrav]

You are one of the best online for information! Keep on keeping on! Much appreciated 👍

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I appreciate the awesome feedback. It is super motivating to hear!

[@HAVOCRISING_]

By far the best on here

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad you think so!! Thank you for watching!

[@pm2785]

Why is this video so much better than the other million I've watched on KZbin?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so glad you think so! Big hugs and please consider subscribing to see new content when it comes out!

[@RedStingrayy]

Thanks soooo much for your thorough and totally helpful video, your information is always 100!!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You are so welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@real-h1739]

You're great, we love listening to your knowledge 😊😊

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for the awesome feedback!

[@davidowens1424]

Thank you! this was very concise and packed with good info

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@chuckcarmichael7835]

Great content. So I already have a Sleep Apnea disability rating secondary to PTSD at 50%. Since I have an 80% combined rating, and I am unable to work, I applied for TDIU. I received a letter from one of the contracted evaluation services saying it was just to notify me that they were going to do a records review. The letter said, “Please note this is a record review only. You will not need to report to an examination”. Out of the blue I receive a phone call from the contracted physician who wanted to discuss my Sleep Apnea. The total length of the phone call was 3 minutes. He asked the same questions that were asked during my original Sleep Apnea C&P exam, except his questions were very leading. For example: “Does the CPAP machine improve your sleep?” I said yes. Then he said, so you wake up refreshed like you received a full night’s sleep. I said, “No, you asked me if the CPAP machine helps, of course it helps or I wouldn’t be wearing it". Anyway, I felt like the conversation was just an attempt to trip me up. It’s going to be interesting to see how this turns out. Have you ever heard of a situation like this before?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

It sounds like they are reevaluating your sleep apnea but I am not really sure of course. They can always reevaluate your conditions when you open a new claim so that can be rough. Keep us posted and thank you for watching.

[@justinbrewer3288]

I am planning on also filing Sleep apnea as secondary to PTSD. How did you go about connecting them? Through medication? or a PTSD symptom? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! @chuckcarmichael7835

[@chuckcarmichael7835]

@@justinbrewer3288 For me personally I knew my service related PTSD was causing chronic sleep impairment. As my PTSD symptoms worsened this exacerbated my multiple sleep conditions and the severity of my sleep apnea. I already had DBQ’s for both sleep apnea and PTSD. My doctor was able to construct a nexus letter using my symptoms, my personal statement, buddy statements, and references to research studies. Obviously a well written Nexus letter by a qualified medical professional is key. Finding a doctor that has the skillset is the difficult part. Good luck.

[@trevorkelly5372]

@@justinbrewer3288did you ever get a response?

[@shimaze5479]

​@@justinbrewer3288​You simply need to tell the examiner the truth about what is going on between your PTSD & sleep apnea. And then, and only then, if the truth reveals that there is a connection between sleep apnea & PTSD, sleep apnea will be connected secondary to PTSD. Finding a way to connect = stretching the truth

[@paulferrara9079]

Thank you. short and sweet. Very helpful. 😊

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@hisley84]

Thank you Leah! Great information.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thanks for watching!

[@siddkid3169]

Keeping a log is ideal. It really helps you recall important personal information. Remember, voice what you believe that makes you restless. Thanks, Leah!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Well said! Thank you for watching bud!

[@divineorder7695]

Thank you for sharing this video and vital information with us 😊🌻.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching!

[@davidj7516]

Thank you very much for your time and posting. 10 - 15 minutes is great... For me. :) Just got my cpap machine, I will put in a claim soon, it only took 50 years to figure out I had sleep apnea after telling the VA for decades I was tired all day long. Thank you again.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am very sorry to hear this but glad you are now getting treatment!

[@affiliatemarketingincomest7270]

Hey Leah, thank you fir this information 👍

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You're so welcome!

[@curiousjorge]

Thanks for the tips there were a few key points that I didn't know can be used to be in our favor to help get a rating disability. 👍🏽👍🏽

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You are very welcome. Thank you for watching

[@Healthhub23]

Thank you for this. It’s great to know a sister or a brother is helping us out. We have to take care of each other long after our separation. I hope you have a great day.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Absolutely!! Thank you for watching!

[@Alaska610ish]

Great video and very helpful! Thank you

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@frankmorales7905]

Great info as I will be going through this.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching

[@scrapguy6816]

Great content. Thanks for sharing.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thanks buddy =-)

[@ramoncastillo4364]

Thank you very much! I have my CNP exam soon!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Best of luck to you with this sir!!

[@leslieespinosa6415]

Very helpful! Thank you

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching!!

[@willferguson2935]

BRILLIANT, Thanks

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad you liked it! Thank you for watching!

[@sammcmooreakamac8286]

Great/awesome video, especially when it's by a SME. Filed for Sleep Apnea secondary to my PTSD. Sked for a teleC&P exam this Friday (12/8) with a PsyD (that's what it says on my paperwork). I'll advised ALCON of the end results. Currently @80%. Again -- thanks for educating your audience.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Best of luck to you and please keep us posted! Thank you for watching!

[@Kmann53now]

Great source of information!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@harly4bill]

Great informative video Leah!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for the input sir!

[@troymott8412]

Video was very helpful, thank you

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad you thought so thank you for the feedback!

[@jamesnicks90]

Wow.SUPER HELPFUL...KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK BEAUTIFUL...

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@TonyRome402]

Very useful information. Thank you for this video.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

So glad to hear this! Thank you for watching!

[@ryanjoachim3132]

i go for my exam on july 1st this was soooo helpful thank you so much for all your info

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so glad you enjoyed it!

[@dennissorensen167]

Very helpful, Thank you

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@chuck5553]

Very helpful…I had my Test done by an outside facility…my VSO said I didn’t need a nexus cause she’ll write something on it 🤷🏻‍♂️. She submitted it but never gave me what she submitted (other than the tests I gave her) I have my C&P later on today and not sure how I’ll answer the questions other than I feel it get worse (or better) depending on my PTSD symptoms. I appreciate this video and will keep y’all posted good or bad

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am glad you enjoyed the video sir and best of luck to you! I hope it works out favorably and sooner than later.

[@lookoutnow4996]

How did it go?

[@chrisvintage1399]

Prestige Worldwide I so much would give you a hug !!!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

🥰

[@chrisvintage1399]

@@prestigeveteranmedical Veterans need humor, thanks.. *Boats and Hoes*

[@getdown1080p]

Thanks for the video

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching!!

[@reverend20piece]

Good stuff, thank you! 💯❤👍

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching!!

[@Odin31b]

Please do a video about how Burn Pits are related to sleep apnea. Thanks for posting.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Great suggestion! Thanks for watching!

[@NeoSoulCrew]

Great work. Can you make a video on the things vets should not do at a c&p exam that will cause you to give a negative opinion.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Oh sure that is a good idea. Here are some tips for now. Stay focused! Remember they are people and while it shouldn't impact your claim being rude or ugly to the examiner doesn't help. I know that can be difficult because respect is a two way street!

[@combatdouglas1306]

Thank you. How about a new video on the 1.) proposed rating changes / future of sleep apnea claims? 2.) If ITF filed before changes, changes pass, claim filed and decided after changes, which law applies? Law at time of ITF or law afterwards? Your efforts and time making such are genuinely appreciated.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hi Douglas it is very nice to see you here =-). I will do my best to cover some of those topics in the future. Thanks for stopping by

[@scrapguy6816]

I agree Douglas. I'd like to know her opinion as well. Her support of Veterans is boundless.

[@blazeandcyrus]

Thanks for the information and bringing it in a clear manner. I would like content regarding Gulf War Vets and the claims that are common for us and the presumptives.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Here is a play list that has a few videos related to Gulf war illnesses sir. Glad you found this video helpful

[@judonnethomas9335]

​@@prestigeveteranmedical3:05

[@saed-sq1kw]

Your information was very helpful. You touched on a lot of things I will be facing in a few days. DAV, didn't attach my Sleep Apnea to a already service connected injury. I have a CPAP machine just waiting to be rated at 50%. Thank you for the insight.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching!!

[@martinfromseacity2010]

Thanks

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching!

[@shanehess8950]

I’m at my sleep apnea exam this morning .. cpap issued . Filed secondary to my service connected allergic rhinitis. Pretty confident! I’m at 90 now . I believe this will get me to 💯

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Keep us posted sir! Excited to hear the outcome

[@shanehess8950]

@@prestigeveteranmedical I promise to keep updated . Today I honestly cried when I looked online . I hit 💯! P/T as well! Thank you so much for your videos and knowledge! Veterans keep fighting ! I’m so happy !

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@shanehess8950 Big big hugs! I am so glad to hear this! Please let me know if you ever need anything in the future!

[@shanehess8950]

@@prestigeveteranmedical Thank you !! my goal is to guide others to this channel and assist them to get the benefits they deserve. I want to help others as you helped me. Nobody left behind . 👍🇺🇸

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@shanehess8950 ❤️❤️❤️

[@victorsantiagotorres1243]

Hi everyone, I've got two nexus letters from Prestige Veteran, resulting in 50%rating for each disability. Sleep apnea was one of them. 100% recommended. Thanks for the help, Paul!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for the opportunity sir and for the awesome feedback!!

[@pierrepedroharvey11]

How do I go about getting a Nexus Letter for sleep apnea secondary to major depression disorder from prestige consulting? My sleep apnea aggravates my depression disorder.

[@JordanSeibert]

Great video

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching

[@davidhowes4572]

Thanks Leah, this is very informative. I have reached out to your team on my new claim for sleep apnea. I want your opinion..Thank you

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Sounds great sir please let me know if you do not hear back within 24 hours or so

[@jsvinsurancegroup5365]

Great video. I filed secondary to my PTSD and on CPAP machine. C&P next week

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching! Keep us posted and best of luck

[@srserpicol]

How did your C&P go??

[@jsvinsurancegroup5365]

@@srserpicol currently on upper level review

[@ricardof9394]

I just did an at home sleep apnea test. They sent me the equipment and I sent it back after one night as instructed, that was a week ago.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hopefully you will have your results soon!

[@ObeidaHernandez]

Great info

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching

[@hollybarber1918]

Hello! I have enjoyed your content. I am currently considering becoming a C&P examiner, but have no idea what to expect.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am glad you are enjoying the content, best of luck to you with that

[@jamesbaucom9538]

I have been using a clap since about 2003 long before I starting to get a benefit. Just found out about cpap benefits. I have had heart by pass surgery. I am going to file on that.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Best of luck to you sir and I am sorry to hear about this!

[@TheTyson35]

Thank you 🙏🏾 for knowledge…I was diagnosed with in 2015 and was denied but now that I am more educated and knowledgeable about OSA, I have filed a supplemental claim for OSA secondary to my depression and muscle skeletal issues which I am considered obese by gaining weight with meds as a side effect and not being able to exercise…I have also sent a nexus letter with an expert opinion who specializes in sleep apnea as new evidence….So now I have a sleep apnea C & P exam coming up in November..I plan to to have another recent copy of my compliance letter which shows I have been recently still using a CPAP from the va hospital so hopefully I won’t have to do a new sleep study…🧐

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Best of luck to you! Thank you for watching

[@TheTyson35]

Update …I went from 90% to 100% P&T …my OSA is now service connected…again thank you for your knowledge & education video ..

[@anthonya8412]

Great information helping Veterans. OSA is a tough one to win but with medical records and a medical evaluation review from Leah’s company you have a better chance. I used Leah’s services years back for OSA secondary to orthopedic primaries with weight gain as the interim step and lost on initial claim with nexus and dbq and private hospital sleep study medical records. Strike one from VA. Filed HLR and requested phone call. VA just denied it with no phone call. Strike 2. Then Filed supplemental with Va and got a second dbq and mini nexus statements within dbq paperwork from my private doctor to add for my supplemental claim. VA denied again. Strike 3 for me. Then I filed direct review appeal with BVA judge. A year later my BVA Judge cited my private doctor and Leah’s dbq and nexus records and became a home run. Approved. Medical records and more medical records and a fair minded BVA Judge and finally got it. Great company and no guarantee you win it but you have your best hand to play by trying. Thanks again Leah. Your the best out there. Hope all Veterans win theirs.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

This is an awesome story sir. More so to give veterans hope that persisting and continuing to seek service connection despite multiple denials often results in a positive outcome when you have a good history and good evidence to support your claim. I am happy to hear you never gave up

[@joseochoa7043]

Jesus man you went through a lot to get that approved. That’s awesome you finally got it SC. I luckily did a sleep study & diagnosed while on active duty. I got it direct service connected on the first try.

[@jasonburke7685]

Did they give you back pay from the time of your first claim? I'm assuming it took quite some time from that point until the judge approved you.

[@brianlovelady6517]

How what a journey. I have two nexus, one from my doctor and one from prestige along with a dbq from prestige plus a lay/buddy statement from my wife... I will prob get denied but hopefully get through at a high level review

[@anthonya8412]

@@jasonburke7685 Yes which is always great from the time you applied when you keep it active in the appeals process( without more then a year of nothing pending, I believe). For me having Leah evaluation initially was a solid case but after VA denials which seems far too common and unjust, the Federal Law Judge in the BVA saw through what the VA did and approved it. For me having a good private doctor willing to fill out the DBQ with a mini nexus statement within the DBQ that supported the same position took it to the finish line for me. Good luck with yours. Very frustrating process with VA but most Vets already know that first hand.

[@seels9]

reached out to you guys today and got a response within 30 minutes. Hoping for more info tomorrow. The VA relying on the vet having a sleep study while in service is super frustrating . I had all the signs of this while in service but no one bothered w/a sleep study until I'd been out for 8 years. Now I have dx of CSA but does it even matter without nexus? well, hoping you guys can help.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hey sir sorry to hear that you have been dealing with this. I hope we are able to assist as well. Please let me know if you do not receive a return reply to your inquiry beyond what you have already received.

[@SpaceRanger187]

Good luck getting a sleep study while in..The amount of veterans that should have gotten medical discharges and didn't,is crazy

[@FordFx4]

Does this have to be service related? The va diagnosed me with obstructive

[@hitechrr]

The VA gave me a CPAP unit and a zero percent rating. They also gave me a zero percent for my service-connected prostate cancer. I did get 10% for tinnitus.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Sorry to hear this sir thank you for watching

[@rdpaullin]

Appreciate all of your extremely valuable information. My question is can OSA be secondary to Hypothyroidism and or Diabetes 2. I was diagnosed Agent Orange Exposure with both symptoms including Hypertension. My C&P Exam is scheduled for next week via video at my VA Clinic. Thank you Leah

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hi sir I am not sure about that. Sometimes sleep apnea can lead to diabetes but I am unaware of the relationship going the other way. Best of luck to you and thank you for watching

[@novphotobeagle]

Thanks!! I added you to my contacts.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You bet. Best of luck to you

[@billiesanford9422]

Im gathering my evidence to send to Prestige now for Sleep apnea secondary to my cervical issues. I hope you can help after you review my records

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I hope so too!

[@SuperMulletguy]

Thank you for this video; very helpful! I've got service connected allergic rhinitis and am filing secondary claim for SA because I have a real hard time breathing through my nose at night when it's symptomatic. I requested 2x to get a SS done while on AD but it was during COVID and no clinics were open. Daytime somnolence and sleep fragmenting are my big issues. What is a phone ACE exam--is that in lieu of a sleep study?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

ACE exams are simply a way the VA conducts some C&P exams. It does not establish a diagnosis of Sleep Apnea. That is what a sleep study does.

[@svlotoy]

On my post deployment medical survey I maked that I was tired after sleeping during and after deployment. VA did sleep study and was issued a cpap machine in 2012. Claim denied. 😒

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am very sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching

[@RapNerdRadio]

Great video! I’m waiting on results from my ACE exam . How long after the exam do veterans usually get a decision?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I’m glad you enjoyed the video. To answer your question it really just depends. If the examiner completes the DBQ quickly and submits it the rater will need to review this and the remainder of the contents of your claim and that can be quick or can be delayed depending on the complexity of the case or the amount of claims they have in front of yours. There really is no way to tell beyond the updates in the system

[@davidhouser301]

Most of my VA experience has been positive, as far as treatment at appointments, and getting Dr, visits. It seems that my biggest issue with disabilities and the VA is that I'm retired, and so it doesn't affect my work. Therefore my disabilities are all deferred. I guess until I die, then they can just write it off.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so sorry to hear this sir. Hopefully your cases will be decided soon

[@jamesb9643]

The VA diagnosed me with sleep apnea and provided me with a Cpap but my doctor refused to put in my record or provide me with a nexus letter. And he refused to say that it is service connected. I had to get a nexus somewhere else so fingers crossed.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Best of luck sir! Thank you for watching

[@Jaime-di1qk]

Thank you for the info. You are very informative and from all the channels I have subscribed……for free. Some channels want you to join their special groups, where they charge a fee. Thank you, Sister

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You are very welcome and I am glad you are enjoying the content my friend! Big hugs

[@ivegotsomethingtosay596]

I wanted to share how I got 50% Sleep Apnea Service Connected. In 2018 got 40% SC for back and radicular. In 2021 a sleep study got diagnosed with 50% SA. Va put me on Seroquel, and gained 50 pounds on it. Turned my sorrows into gold by joining the MOVE program. Filed claim for sleep apnea to be secondary to obesity and said obesity is due to inability to exercise bc of service connected lumbar.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for sharing and thank you for watching!

[@johnnyc5587]

Love watching you. I wanted to ask you a question. I have a dilemma. I seemed to have a plethora of evidence , Nexus letters and what not, but I currently have 10 % for tinnitus, Service connected for Right ear hearing loss O %. Service Connected for Hyperacusis 0%. And I was denied for Migraines. Where should I go form here ? I am currently in the process of filing for Anxiety and Somatic stress disorder. Any advice I would welcom . I love hearing your thoughts. Thank u

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

If you are looking for nexus letters we are happy to try to assist if you contact us at [e-mail] if you need strategy assistance I would recommend that you follow up with a legal professional like a VSO or an attorney. Thank you for watching!

[@topsoled]

Thanks for the content. I have a c&p tomorrow actually and the rater requested a sleep study; however, I’ve done one with the VA in 2020 and they found I had mixed SA. Have you encountered this and, if so, do you know what the purpose was for performing another sleep study?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hey sir I do see that happen occasionally. Typically if your sleep study was that recent this is a case of them not sending the correct documentation over to the contract examining company. Many vets would call and inquire about this and if the contracted company tells you they do not have a copy of your sleep study you could ask them to go get your recent copy from the VA. Hope that helps. Keep us posted!

[@topsoled]

Will do, thanks for the quick response!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@topsoled You bet, any time

[@mariomario..]

Did you find out if they asked for a new sleep study because yours was older than 12 months or if it was for another reason?

[@Maab32]

Just had a phone call C&P for sleep apnea.. i had about 2 hours of notice that it was coming. Definitely dont feel good about it. The whole thing felt rushed, especially since i didnt know this was even happening today.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am very sorry to hear this sir. Best of luck to you and keep us posted

[@justinbrewer3288]

Can you provide a link to the DBQ in your video descriptions?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Here you go: www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/docs/Sleep_Apnea.pdf

[@mlm7536]

do you have any videos on secondary conditions attributed to asbestosis exposure on a navy ship that leads to calcified pleural plaques 30 years later. Also appropriate compensation for the initial discovery of pleural plagues to initial exposure. For me it was 1972 to 2016

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I do not unfortunately I am sorry about that. We can look at trying to add this type of video in the future!

[@ronaldcummings3855]

I was awarded a claim for sleep apnea I had to do a phone interview with a psychologist and explain how it effects me and how it was related to the military

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Congrats sir I am so happy to hear you were approved. Thanks for sharing

[@jaimiegonzalez67]

I’m currently at 30% for anxiety and depression for when I was on the USS COLE during the bombing. I didn’t get a sleep study done while I was in service but I have buddy statements. Should I file sleep apnea secondary to my anxiety/depression? Or should I file for PTSD then sleep apnea secondary to PTSD?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You can only be rated for one mental health condition. As far as the filling process for the sleep apnea is concerned you will want to get with a legal expert like a VSO to advise on that specifically.

[@franciswimpenney8341]

What you are stating never was asked at my c&p.Iwas only asked three questions.Thr doctor asked only three questions.She asked If I had daytime sleepiness. If I has a pac machine.She t9ld me that she only types into boxes in the computer. That was it.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am sorry to heart that sir. I hope it turns out ok and thank you for watching

[@stevedodd595]

If you have a cpap or using the cpap

[@guardsix6]

I didn't know any of this before I went to my C&P Exam for sleep apnea. My "exam" lasted about 5 min. I don't even remember if the Doctor even asked if I used a CPAP/Bi-PAP which I have for the last 15 years! I might not have also submitted my Sleep Study documentation with my Benefits Claim, but I did give it to the Doctor before the exam. The VA just said my request for Sleep Apnea was denied. That's all, nothing more. So what should I do now? I'm 73 and a Vietnam Vet, VA has agreed that I have claims under the PACT Act and I'm at 40% right now. Seems I should be getting some rating for Sleep Apnea.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching. If you are interested in working with us on a nexus letter we would be happy to take a look at your case. Please email us at [e-mail]

[@carlosarnado3955]

Hello, i got a sleep study done in May 2021, It recommended that I get a Cpap machine. Due to a lot of medical and family issues in 2021, I never followed up with getting a machine. Will this sleep study be still good if I apply to the VA for sleep apnea secondary to my PTSD condition Thank you, I really enjoy all your videos. I'm a Vietnam Vet

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching sir I am glad you are finding the videos helpful. Every case is different so I am not sure based upon your sepcifics but they will let you know! Best of luck

[@thomashertzog1071]

I was discharged from the service for years ( maybe 8 yrs ) before being diagnose with Sleep Apnea. Never knew I had it. All those years my Wife and Hunting buddies said sound like a bear. To add to this I've been discharged for 47yrs. I'm not a combat veteran, I served in Panama. Is it worth while bringing up? The reason I'm going to the VA now is to see if I can get help for Prescriptions

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You would have to show how it is related to your service in some way. Best of luck to you and thank you for watching

[@kiwiroy48]

Hi I am 74 years old and have 10% for service related Tinnitus , I have hearing tests from 1967 to 1968 from the Navy and the loss is very noticeable, Its related to Ship Duty on A Carrier chipping paint plus aircraft noise. I Discharged from the Navy in 1971 and never knew I could get any Veterans medical help . I have had Tinnitus ever since my service .Doctors and health care was not great back then a I had gone for sleeping problems a few times through the 1980s and they knew nothing . So I went to a doctor in 2011 and had hearing tests and again in 2014 complaining about waking up gasping for air ,They had me do a Sleep apnea test and was issued a cpap machine which helps , I found out in 2014 I could get Veterans medical help so I got hearing aids . I feel I should have a higher compensation rating .I also have depression problems

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am very sorry to hear this sir. You should certainly pursue those issues if you believe they are related to your service.

[@kiwiroy48]

@@prestigeveteranmedical Hi I had a CP exam ,and the examiner did not think Sleep apnea could be caused from Tinnitus ,So looking at information on the web doctors are saying the opposite?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@kiwiroy48 I am sorry to hear this sir. I also do not believe that tinnitus causes sleep apnea.

[@davidhook469]

I’m at 70% I’ve used a CPAP for 10 years secondary condition to shoulder injury and fiber myalgia In my legs been waiting for 3 months after my C&P exams??? Hopefully I’ll hear something soon

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I hope you hear something soon too sir. Keep us posted and thank you for tuning in!

[@renevera5506]

How can I submit you questions?…For example; Is a type of apnea under the description of unable to read or concentrate reading material more then a page, without getting drowsy, tired, or passing out? During service years, remembering passing-out after needing to study for CDC’s, even blacking-out.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hey sir that is not what apnea is. You may want to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. If you are interested in a nexus letter please email us at [e-mail]

[@gotruckers]

Curious what a C&P evaluated would think about this: I knew I had sleep apnea for several years but I am a provider myself and with Covid and things I never had a chance to see a provider for my concerns. I got out June 30 and had a sleep study done about 40 days later as I have now had a chance to be seen for some of my concerns. I have significant sleep apnea. Even if not in the medical record is it really reasonable that they would say less than a 50% chance I had it while in the military? Everyone has me worried about that but I guess I can't see how they would see it more likely than not service connected? I even have a letter from my provider that I had in the military who says I likely had sleep apnea.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

It is tough because you were diagnosed after service. There are specific conditions that are presumed related to service if diagnosed within 1 year. Sleep apnea is not one of them unfortunately.

[@rubensalinas6694]

Thanks for the info! I have some questions. I'm already rated for tinnitus and have mental health claim secondary to tinnitus. Does sleep apnea have to be secondary to tinnitus or can this be secondary to my mental health claim(depression, anxiety )even though if my mental health is a secondary claim to tinnitus? Do I need to submit my test results from my sleep apnea to my claim? Is getting a DBQ more beneficial to be filled out by your PCP than have the C&P examiner fill it out? I'm also trying to get a nexus to connect sleep apnea. Thank you!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Sir you will want to ask a legal professional for advice on how to file claims and what to submit. I do not believe tinnitus causes sleep apnea. If you would like more information on nexus letters please reach out to us at [e-mail]

[@Patchesmama21]

You mentioned cpap machines. What about APAP machines? Or is cpap the general term for both machines?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

It’s really supposed to be for a breathing assistive device so APAP CPAP mandibular device etc

[@anthonyrobertson3659]

Great video...wished I saw this earlier. I have been diagnosed with SA, have a CPAP machine for years. Examiner (very condescending) started off with "Do you know what SA is?"... she said it's obstructive because of BMI, so not service connected. Being muscular always has a high BMI... is that a reason for obstructive SA thus denying service connection (Im not a doctor)? Thank you!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am glad you liked the video sir. Thank you for watching. I am sorry to hear about your bad experience at the C&P exam.

[@alanarnold6976]

Can you speak to home sleep studies and if the VA accepts them? Thanks!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Yes sir these are accepted and actually are often ordered by the VA as well

[@americusdomesticus8176]

Filed a claim for OSA 2° to primary insomnia in 2017 and was denied. since then my insomnia was changed to mhc of GAD. now I have buddy statements, and new MH dignosis. i was issued a cpap but rarely used it bc it made me feel claustraphobic. i am client now of Carmella George. will I be denied SC 50% rate if i do not use my cpap? i feel i will need a good nexus from a sleep dr or psychologist. I am sure Carmella will know, i am just hoping a supplimental claim can be filed b4 VA changes something. Thanks L.D.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hi sir! I would def follow up with Ms. George. I also would not recommend working with a psychologist on a letter about sleep apnea as they have no formal education or training on this matter.

[@standelasanantone2180]

I was diagnosed with OSA about 5 years ago after noticing I was gaining weight, and I was just too damn worn out to workout… (I used to be a bit of a gym rat); and my ex-wife used to regularly comment on my snoring and choking so the VA sent me for a sleep study. We thought I might have narcolepsy because I would be really sleepy at work and go sit in my car to take a nap! I have also been on a CPAP since then… but I have not applied for an rating increase (even after the VA sleep study and they provided the CPAP) because I was advised that the VA could/would possibly decrease my current 90% rating because I moved overseas (on official PCS Orders, as my wife is still active) - so I’m really afraid I might lose what I already have, and really very much need…!!! Need help…!!!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I’m so sorry to hear this!! Best of luck to you sir. You may want to comment t with a legal professional for advice

[@kellyB555]

Thank you, so much this was great information. I have a question. I have filed for Sleep Apnea and denied twice, without ever having a C&P exam. I've also been been diagnosed for sleep apnea many times, and I wear a CPAP. However, my claim has always been filed or appealed as a primary (individual) claim. I recently was diagnosed with PTSD; thereafter, an appeal for sleep apnea was filed as primary (individual), not as a secondary . I now have a scheduled C&P exam for Sleep Apnea coming up in few weeks. Should I mentioned that I have PSTD to the examiner?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You are very welcome! Thank you for watching. Are you service connected for PTSD? You can of course always mention anything to the examiner that you believe is relevant. If the PTSD is not service connected and the examiner believes for some reason that your OSA is related to the PTSD that would likely result in a negative outcome if the PTSD has not been recognized as related to service.

[@kellyB555]

​@@prestigeveteranmedical Thank you for your reply, Oh yea, the PTSD is service connected. For the past few years, I’ve had a service handle my appeals, etc... When PTSD was awarded as service connection, they immediately appealed the Sleep Apnea They said, since it was orginally Not filed as a secondary to PTSD, It could results in a negative outcome. Maybe I misunderstood them, it seems, it would be something the examiner would want to know.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@kellyB555 Well that is great! Keep us posted on the outcome!

[@kellyB555]

@@prestigeveteranmedical I wanted to update you on my recent results and my C&P exam. Maybe it will help others. About a month or so ago, I had my C&P exam for Sleep Apnea. There wasn’t too much questioning, more explaining. 
But there were the standard questions, 
like; when it started. what type of mask. I remember telling the examiner my symptoms. How, I’m still adjusting to wearing mask strapped to my face. I provided my last sleep study, the examiner already had it. I mentioned, I’ve had 4 sleep studies in the past 15 years all resulting and prescribing a cPAP. 
 It was also important to know. the examiner said I was consistent with my answers. She was comparing them to pervious answers I had submitted. I totally forgot I was ask those same questions years ago before. In my question in this post, I asked, “Should I mentioned that I have PSTD to the examiner?”. I am service connected with combat PTSD. In the exam, I never brought up PTSD, the examiner did. And it was more about her explaining that my sleep apnea was more likely due to chemical exposure, than PTSD. today, I was award 50% for sleep apnea. And I am finally getting use to wearing that mask. It does make a differnece.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@kellyB555 So happy to hear about your service connection! Glad to know your mask is making a difference as well. Thank you for the update

[@samlee752]

I had chest surgery by the army because I joined with the pectus excavsctum . They found i have a mild compression on my heart . They decide I make a good candidate for chest surgery . After surgery I had alot of sleep problems I couldn't sleep at all or ill get 4 - 5 hrs and I will feel very depressed very moody. I went to behavioral health They diagnosed me with adjustment disorder due to stress of life and events I'm like ok . The issue still continue on even when I got out . My wife tells me I snore loud I thought it was normal . I do wake up feeling tired . My last straw was my brother telling me I was snoring super super loud and I need to go get it check . When I did the sleep study I found out I have moderate sleep apnea and require cpap. In the army I couldn't do anything for 3 years because I was on a specialize case profile restriction.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so sorry to hear about your struggles sir. I wish you the best in life and your pursuit of VA disability

[@samlee752]

@@prestigeveteranmedical ihave a exam on the 28th of this month. How do I tell them that my sleep apnea is related to what I describe on my comment ? I was diagnosed by the va .

[@samlee752]

@@prestigeveteranmedical I'm 60 percent and I have a exam 28th July for sleep apnea and ED how do I tell them if my sleep apnea is connected to chest surgery .

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@samlee752 You can just try to explain it to the examiner or write a personal statement

[@theneverendinghighway]

I have a question: I have a 50% rating for PTSD and I'm considering filing a claim for my sleep apnea. I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea with the VA and I'm using a CPAP machine, I have experienced weight gain, and I was exposed to burn pits in Iraq, which is where I remember the first symptoms of sleep apnea. I was waking myself up snoring and out of breath and I was always tired. My question is though, my sleep study test was over 10 years ago. Is that test to old? Or would they make me get a new test? I still see the sleep clinic doctors and they take my readings from the CPAP machine.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am not really sure sir I have seem them accept them and I have also seen them reordered. Best of luck on this and thank you for watching

[@stowash03]

I was denied sleep apnea and I am waiting on my hearing now from my appeal. My question is: How affective are the buddy letters for the VA to reverse their decision. I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea by the VA and issued a CPAT machine. Thanks

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

It really just depends on the case. Best of luck with this and thank you for watching!

[@tjblackartist]

How could I show service connection if I’m filing for sleep apnea by itself and NOT as a secondary condition?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

You would need to show that you likely had it on active duty. Have you seen my video on direct service connection for OSA?

[@tedosan]

I was diagnosed with moderate to severe sleep apnea by the VA after a home sleep study. When I went to my C&P exam I got completely F'd . Dr. looked right at me & blatantly said "I can't exam you for sleep apnea". Terrible experience

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so sorry to hear that sir that sounds crazy

[@redgringrumboldt8983]

My examiner said, "Looks like you have sleep apnea based on your sleep study results. Ok that's it!"

[@kennethmurray4539]

Alot of what she said wasn't done...and it wasn't my examiners fault. In a military hospital, I received a "Provisional diagnosis "Syncopy" The VA wantrd me tested for Narcolepsy, which was never mentioned in my medical files. Then the decision letter basically said that I said I had narcolepsy (which I never said)

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am so sorry to hear this sir. I hope you get it straightened out and thank you for watching

[@kennethmurray4539]

@@prestigeveteranmedical Thank you.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@kennethmurray4539 you bet

[@cmphighpower]

Had mine today that was a disappointment he never asked any questions about my work or what it was related to anything

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am very sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching

[@trollisdebose6505]

I did sleep study. Was put on a space machine. I have headaches after a nap. Can I use my high blood pressure and diabetes as a secondary to sleep Alpena.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am sorry to hear this sir. There are veterans that have those secondary connections. It just depends on the specifics

[@lovinglife1962]

I do have a question that it is about sleep apnea DBQ.. I have three personal statements along with 2 DBQ's for sleep apnea from two different private doctors is it Overkill to upload two of those or should one just be uploaded? One is from my personal physician and the other is from the sleep study doctor that diagnosed me and prescribed me the CPAP. I have a 19 page Nexus to tie this into tinnitus as well as the medical diagnosis paperwork. Sleep study was done less than 6 months ago

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

That is really a question for a legal professional sir as they would have a better grasp on the filling process. Thank you for watching

[@gsotherchannel2961]

Filed fully formed claim last month w/ nexus, dbq from dr., original sleep study 2008, cpap script renewals for every year since the study, and buddy letter. I got an email last week and today a packet from QTC saying NO in-person eval will be performed, just a review of med records to complete a dbq. Is this good or bad?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

It just depends of the examiner. It could be just fine but really no difference in my opinion as to weather it is an ACE exam or an in person exam. It is a toss up

[@thyelinnelson6951]

I did a sleep study at a lab and was diagnosed with OSA 3 months ago, when I filed the claim they sent me a at home sleep study and that test was negative. I know something went wrong because I had an actual episode with the home study and it didn't show on my result. Will they evaluate me with both study or they only using theirs? And can I disagree with the negative home study and get a second review?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

That is tough to say sir. It is important that you show the one that has the positive values of course. Was the home one done after your sleep lab one or before?

[@thyelinnelson6951]

@@prestigeveteranmedical Thank you for your feedback. I gave the physician who did my C&P exam a copy of my lab result but I don't know who else I can submit it to. Yes the night owl home test was done after.

[@danreardon505]

I have had two sleep tests done, both with VA the in home monitor test and the sleep at facility test. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. Breathing stops over 20 times a hour on my side and over 30 times a hour on my back. Was issued a cpap. Put in a claim and was denied. Apparently there's no linage to service connected. Looks like I'll need a buddy statement. Anything else you recommend? Was in Iraq during initial invasion and did a year deployment, have a presumptive cardiovascular disease granted by VA under gulf war syndrome. Also subject to burn pits. Thank you!!

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

I am very sorry to hear this. Each case is different. It is just important to show how your service caused the condition of course as you mentioned. Generally speaking burn pit exposure is not a known cause of this particular disease. I have several other sleep apnea videos that may be helpful based upon your specific circumstances. Best of luck sir!

[@danreardon505]

Thank you, just looked into alittle more and found that Sleep-disordered breathing is common in heart failure patients and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Central sleep apnea occurs more commonly in heart failure-reduced ejection fraction, and obstructive sleep apnea occurs more frequently in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. And low ejection fraction is exactly what I have. Since I have heart failure that's a current approved disability do you think I'd have any luck, claiming sleep apnea as a secondary to it? Also I'm not sure what type of sleep apnea I have, so need to find that out. I'll take a look at your other videos. We all appreciate this more than you know.

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

@@danreardon505 It is hard to say sir. It all depends on the all of your risk factors. These cases can be very complex. I wish there was a black and white answer but they really depend on a variety of issues. Some of the biggest risk factors for example of obstructive sleep apnea are weight gain or obesity so that will need to be addressed first and foremost in that type of case. I am glad you are finding the content helpful. Keep us posted on your outcome!

[@sweetchinmusiq1623]

I did my sleep study a few months ago. Long story short I was issued CPAP. I have buddy letters/personal statements. Just waiting on my c&p exam. I hear a lot of veterans say they have been denied. Mine is secondary to PTSD. Just praying that they approve my claim. Should I get a DBQ or imo

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Hey sir thank you for watching and best of luck to you. IMO's are never required and are a personal choice based upon the veterans needs. Would you like me to send you some infomation via email?

[@sweetchinmusiq1623]

​​@@prestigeveteranmedicalupdate. I received positive feedback back from my c&p exam. Hopefully the rater sees it the same way!!! Thank you for your videos

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for the update friend! I hope so too! @@sweetchinmusiq1623

[@takshi5587]

Hi, thanks for the video. I was not treated for sleep apnea during my active duty time, how do I get service connected for sleep apnea?

[@prestigeveteranmedical]

Thank you for watching. There are many different ways. Have you checked out all of our other sleep apnea videos? They show a bunch of different links