Mine was just opposite I got 10% tinnitus and not service connected hearing loss. I spent years on filing claims, just last summer ended up 100%, got to keep on them. I take 6 meds for blood pressure and the VA disapproved claim but did finally raise heart compensation from 60 to 100%.
Hi Ruth & Michael,
I had a hearing test to establish I did have tinnitus. The Dr's write up supported my theory.
The decision letter from the VA states:
Service connection for tinnitus is denied.
Then it goes on to say that there are no entries in my service treatment records for complaints, treatment, or diagnosis for this condition.
(This is a tru statement as the condition only presented 3 years ago, full-time.)
They do concede that my MOS was acoustic analyst from which was exposure to hazardous noise.
You have been diagnosed with a disability. VA exam dated June 25, 2025 examiner confirms your diagnosis of tinnitus.
Other that this little consistent noise in my head, I am healthy with a challenge or 2, nothing major.
Gail, I just noticed this thread. A few years back I got a 30% rating based on tinnitus and subsequent hearing loss, as well as a foot surgery the Navy messed up. Both items were in my service record so approval was made easier but I also used a VA advocate office to do all the paperwork. All they do is process VA disability requests. The advantage of getting at least a 10% rating enables you to use VA facilities; I get free hearing aids and just had cataract surgery in November- what a blessing that’s been for better eye sight!
If you haven’t used an advocate yet I recommend you do.
I’ve read that 80% of people with tinnitus have hearing loss. From the number of system people with tinnitus I suspect it’s all related. My unscientific opinion is that it’s related to the vacuum system and the constant hissing sound it created. One more point, with hearing aids in I am not aware of the tinnitus.
I wish you luck with this effort, it’s worth the trouble.
Thanks Randy for sharing your experience. I had not considered an advocate to assist.
As you read, this only became consistent 3 years ago & I have no hearing loss. Just outright aggravation at the constant crackling. I was wondering is there had been any noise studies at the Navfacs concerning the vacuum systems, the always on noise from the actuators, & the A/C. Does anyone know of such a study, and if so, what the numbers were or the results of the studies or where to dig them up?
I had to fight through this also. I have 10% service connected for tinnitus. The hearing loss was denied even though above 3k hz
I can't hear anything.
Crazy system.
