After the 1991 Persian Gulf
War, combat veterans reported a range of medically unexplained symptoms,
including headaches, chronic fatigue, loss of muscle control, dizziness, muscle
and joint pains, skin problems, and memory problems, among many others.
Collectively, these symptoms were found to be connected to Persian Gulf War
syndrome, an illness many combat veterans had reportedly acquired from their
service in the Gulf War.
Possible
Causes of the Gulf War Syndrome
So far, studies have mostly
been inconclusive on what exactly is causing illnesses among Gulf War combat
veterans. Some studies have found a possible link between the condition and the
veterans’ possible exposure to nerve gas medication and insect repellents;
while other studies indicate a correlation between the condition and the
administration of anthrax vaccine. A federally mandated research in the U.S.,
however, shows that many of the cases may be related to the vets’ exposure to
toxic chemicals while serving in the war.
Eligibility
for VA and Social Security Disability Benefits
Gulf War veterans who have
acquired symptoms related to Gulf War syndrome may be eligible for veterans
disability compensation and Social Security disability benefits. Veterans who
have worked at least half the time since they were 21 are also eligible for
Social Security Disability Insurance, while those who haven’t worked for a long
time due to disability are eligible for Supplemental Security Income. Being
awarded VA disability benefits, however, does not guarantee automatic approval
for SSDI or SSI.
