VA HOSPITAL SAYS NO TO REITERS DISEASE

March 29, 2011

Hi everyone. I'm a disabled veteran. Not because the VA said so but Social

Security says so. Heres my story. While in Vietnam I contracted a venerial

disease. When the symptoms appeared, I went on sick call. The doctor gave me

these little pills that made me urinate green for a week. From that time on

everything was ok. Around 1980,about seven years later, I was having pain in my

feet and ankles as well as occasional knee and lower back pain. Family doctor

sent me to foot doctor-sent me to rheumatologist. After several tests, her

diagnosis was Reiters desease. Her and family doctor worked together in

determining the best treatment for me. As years gone by, both doctors moved

south and I was left to manage on my own because I changed jobs and had no

health insurance. A few years back, I had a very bad flare up. So bad that I

could not work anymore I applaid for Social Security and was denied only because

the last 5 years I had a seasonal job that only lasted 6 to 7 months per year

and not paid enough into the system. So I went to the VA for treatment. They say

it isn't Reiters Desease. At the same time Social Security said I could be

eligble for SSI If I can show them my medical history and See a doctor of their

choice. Six months later I was awarded SSI. Presently, all my medical care is

done at the VA hospital. I've accepted the VA's diagnoses of not having Reiters

desease for several years now although I'm being treated for the same symptoms.

Recently I was treated for shingles. I was told that it is a dorment virus that

can reoccur later in life. That made me think about Reiters desease again. So

whos to say that it to can't reoccur. I would really like to have closer on this

issue but don't know where to go or what to do. Can anyone help? Sincerely, Jay

W.

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