Increasingly, disabled veterans and their advocates have sought to add Gulf War Syndrome to the list of recognized disabilities. This would enable veterans diagnosed with this particular chronic illness to potentially qualify for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, they may face an uphill battle, and the VA has not yet taken any steps to formally recognize this illness as a service-related disability.
Advocates Seek to Have Gulf War Syndrome Added to List of Disabilities
In 2025, the CDC formally recognized Gulf War Syndrome (also known as Gulf War illness) as a disorder, giving it a medical diagnostic code. Despite this, the VA has dragged its heels when it comes to recognizing the disorder as an actual disability. As a result, even though victims can get treated for Gulf War Syndrome, they do not necessarily qualify for disability benefits the way they would for other service-related disabilities.
The Impact of Gulf War Syndrome
Gulf War Syndrome is a medical condition that afflicts many veterans who served in the US military during the Gulf War between 1990 and 1991. Victims experience chronic issues such as fatigue, wheezing, shortness of breath, unexplained rashes, inflammation, memory issues, and other neurological problems. While the condition is often attributed to exposure to certain chemicals during the war, particularly toxins like sarin gas, it nevertheless tends to go undiagnosed or underdiagnosed.
The Potential Upside of Recognizing Gulf War Syndrome
Right now, many veterans who seek disability benefits due to Gulf War Syndrome are denied due to having an “undiagnosed illness.” Adding the condition to the list of recognized disabilities would make it far less likely for victims to be rejected in this way, increasing their chances of being able to obtain benefits. This would help to alleviate the financial strain of dealing with their condition, and also help their families gain access to assistance that would otherwise be unavailable.
Fighting For Veterans Disability Benefits
If you or someone you love is struggling to obtain disability benefits through the VA, you should contact a lawyer with experience handling disability claims, such as the lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe. They can review your personal circumstances and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your situation. The sooner you call, the sooner they can get to work for you.
The attorneys of Sullivan & Kehoe place a special focus on assisting disabled veterans. Our veterans’ disability lawyers are still available for remote consultation on your legal issues. Call our office at (800) 395-7830 to schedule a consultation in our New York City, Garden City, Kings Park, Riverhead, or White Plains office, or visit our contact page.
