Conditions secondary to Sleep Apnea

Service-connected obstructive sleep apnea is itself frequently claimed as secondary to other conditions, and it in turn contributes to cardiovascular and mental-health conditions that are separately ratable.

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

  Untreated obstructive sleep apnea is a well-documented cause and aggravator of hypertension; recognized as a secondary basis with a nexus opinion.

• Depressive disorder (secondary to chronic pain)

  Chronic untreated obstructive sleep apnea (fatigue, fragmented sleep) is a recognized contributor to — and aggravator of — depression; claimable as secondary with a nexus opinion.

Informational only and not a guarantee of service connection. A secondary condition still needs a medical nexus opinion linking it to the primary, and the VA makes the final decision. This is not medical or legal advice.