Gulf War Illness (GWI) refers to a collection of chronic, unexplained symptoms experienced by many veterans who served during the Gulf War era, particularly in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses the term "medically unexplained chronic multisymptom illness" (MUCMI) to describe these conditions and provides presumptive service connection for eligible veterans.

Gulf War Illness symptoms vary but often include:

• Fatigue

• Joint and muscle pain

• Memory and concentration problems ("brain fog")

• Digestive issues like IBS

• Sleep disturbances

• Skin problems and rashes

• Headaches or respiratory issues

Note: These are some common symptoms, every veteran’s experience is different.

Veterans may be eligible if they:

• Served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations during or after August 2, 1990

  (including Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman, and nearby waters/airspace)

• Have symptoms that began during service or became disabling before December 31, 2026

• Experience symptoms for 6 months or more without a clear medical diagnosis

How the VA Evaluates Gulf War Claims

• The VA does not require a specific diagnosis if symptoms are consistent with MUCMI

• Claims are evaluated based on severity, duration, and impact on daily life

• Veterans must provide service records and evidence of chronic symptoms

To file a new claim for a condition linked to Gulf War Illness:

• Submit VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits)

• Include medical evidence showing a diagnosis of a presumptive condition

• Provide military service records confirming service in a qualifying location and time period

• If applying based on a condition not on the presumptive list, additional medical and scientific evidence will be required

If the VA denied your disability claim in the past and they now consider your condition presumptive:

• File a Supplemental Claim using VA Form 20-0995

• Include a medical record that shows you have an Gulf War-related health condition

• Provide military records

• If applying based on a condition not on the presumptive list, additional medical and scientific evidence will be required

You can file online at VA.gov, by mail, or with help from a VA-accredited representative.

At Greene & Marusak, we help Gulf War veterans build strong claims and understand MUCMI rules. If you’re experiencing chronic, unexplained symptoms from your service, contact our VA-accredited team.

Give us a call at (844) 483-8737