Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) may seem like a minor inconvenience to some, but for many veterans, it’s a chronic and debilitating condition that significantly impacts daily life. Despite its subtle symptoms, DES can be classified as a service-connected disability, particularly when tied to mental health issues, surgeries, or environmental exposures experienced during military service. This article explores what Dry Eye Syndrome is, why it’s so prevalent among veterans, and how to navigate the VA claims process for those seeking recognition and support.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry Eye Syndrome occurs when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This results in inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- A stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- A gritty feeling, like something is stuck in your eye
- Difficulty with visual tasks such as reading, driving, or using a computer
For veterans, these symptoms can have a serious effect on quality of life, especially when trying to meet the physical and mental demands of post-service careers or daily responsibilities.
How Common Is Dry Eye Syndrome Among Veterans?
According to a study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology, the prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome in the veteran population is 19% in men and 22% in women—significantly higher than in the general population. These statistics reveal that DES is more than just an annoyance for veterans; it’s a widespread and persistent issue.
Veterans may face higher risks due to a combination of factors, including:
- Environmental exposures during deployment
- Underlying mental health conditions
- Side effects from medications
- Eye surgeries performed during service
Psychiatric Conditions and DES: A Strong Connection
Several scientific studies have shown a compelling connection between Dry Eye Syndrome and mental health conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depression—both of which are highly prevalent in the veteran community.
Some key studies include:
- “Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Dry Eye Syndrome“ (American Journal of Ophthalmology, August 2012): This study utilized the U.S. Veterans Affairs database to examine the scope of DES on a national level and its link with psychiatric diagnoses.
- “Dry Eye Syndrome, PTSD, and Depression in an Older Male Veteran Population“ (Investigative Ophthalmology, May 2013): This research highlighted the higher incidence of DES in veterans with PTSD and depression.
- “The Association of Dry Eye Syndrome Severity and Comorbid Insomnia in U.S. Veterans“ (Eye & Contact Lens Science, September 2018): This study found that insomnia—another common condition among veterans—can worsen dry eye symptoms.
These findings suggest that the condition is often part of a broader pattern of post-service health challenges.
The Role of Laser Eye Surgery
Refractive eye surgeries such as LASIK and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) are commonly performed during military service to improve vision without glasses. However, these procedures can also increase the risk of developing chronic dry eye.
Many veterans have been denied disability claims for DES linked to such surgeries under the assumption that the procedures were “elective” and therefore not service-connected. However, there have been successful appeals where service connection was ultimately granted.
Supporting research includes:
- “Dry Eye More Likely to Develop After LASIK than PRK“ (American Academy of Ophthalmology, January 2020)
- “Refractive Surgery and Dry Eye: An Update“ (Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, 2023)
- “Dry Eye After Refractive Surgery“ (Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology, 2020)
If you had LASIK or PRK while on active duty and are now experiencing chronic DES, it’s important to consult an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO), claims agent, or VA-accredited attorney. Even if you were initially denied, these professionals may be able to help you build a strong case for service connection.
Environmental and Other Risk Factors
In addition to psychiatric disorders and surgery, there are several other factors that increase the likelihood of veterans developing DES:
- Harsh environmental conditions during deployment, such as wind, sand, and dry climates
- Exposure to airborne pollutants like burn pits, chemicals, or smoke
- Chronic pain conditions, which are known to correlate with higher rates of dry eye
- Sleep apnea, especially when accompanied by eyelid laxity or incomplete eyelid closure
- Medication side effects, particularly from drugs used to treat anxiety, depression, or high blood pressure
Each of these factors can contribute to either the development or worsening of dry eye symptoms, making a strong case for VA disability claims when properly documented.
Filing a VA Disability Claim for DES
Veterans who believe their Dry Eye Syndrome is related to their military service have two primary options for filing a disability claim:
- Direct Service Connection: If you were diagnosed with DES during your time in the military, this is the most straightforward path.
- Secondary Service Connection: If DES developed as a result of another service-connected condition—such as PTSD or a surgical procedure—it may qualify under secondary connection rules.
Tips for Filing
- Collect medical evidence: A current diagnosis of DES from a qualified eye specialist is essential.
- Document the connection: Ask your optometrist, ophthalmologist, or even primary care provider to write a statement linking your condition to service.
- Consult an accredited representative: A VSO, claims agent, or VA attorney can help navigate denials and appeals.
- Know the ratings: The VA evaluates DES under 38 CFR § 4.79, often rating it analogously to other eye conditions. Typical ratings include:
- 10% for one eye
- 20% for both eyes
While these percentages may seem low, you can add to your overall disability rating, and in some cases, they help qualify veterans for additional compensation when combined with other conditions.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook DES
Dry Eye Syndrome may seem like a minor issue at first glance, but for many veterans, it is a disabling condition that affects vision, comfort, and daily functionality. It often coexists with other more visible service-connected disabilities, making it easy to overlook. But if left unaddressed, DES can lead to long-term eye damage and significantly reduced quality of life.
Veterans who believe their DES is connected to their service—whether through trauma, surgery, environmental exposures, or medication—should not hesitate to file a claim. With the right documentation and support, many have successfully obtained recognition and compensation for this underappreciated condition.
If you’ve been through the VA claims process for DES, your story could help others. Whether your claim was approved or denied, sharing your experience might guide a fellow veteran toward getting the support they need.
Also read: Can You Work with a 100% VA Disability Rating?
At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.
Our purpose 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.
