Aggravation: How to Prove Your Service-Connected Condition Was Made Worse and Get an Increase

Many veterans assume 'increase' claims are the same as filing new conditions. This episode explains the aggravation theory — when a service-connected disability is worsened by a later injury, illness, or event and that permanent worsening can net you a higher rating. I walk through the legal standard in plain language, the exact evidence that persuades raters (dated treatment notes, a nexus opinion tying the aggravating event to permanent worsening, a timeline, and lay/buddy statements), and give verbatim claim language and form numbers you can use today. You’ll learn how to avoid common pitfalls that turn a solid case into a denial and how to prep for the C&P examiner when the issue is aggravation. Clear, kitchen-table guidance so you can file accurately and start getting paid for when you were worse.