Apnea, Sleep
Apnea, Sleep is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 6847 in the Respiratory System category. Maximum rating: 100%.
Respiratory Rating Table
Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) Rating Criteria
Source: 38 CFR ยง 4.96-4.97 - Schedule of Respiratory Ratings
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention or cor pulmonale, or requires tracheostomy |
| 50% | Requires use of breathing assistance device such as continuous airway pressure (CPAP) machine |
| 30% | Persistent day-time hypersomnolence |
| 0% | Asymptomatic but with documented sleep disorder breathing |
Important Notes
Very commonly claimed. IMPORTANT: CPAP use = 50% rating. This is the most common rating for veterans with sleep apnea. The 50% rating is a 'cliff' threshold - if CPAP is not medically prescribed/required, rating drops to 30% or 0% regardless of symptoms. Document sleep study (polysomnography) results showing AHI and CPAP prescription. 100% rating requires chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention or cor pulmonale, or requires tracheostomy.
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 6847 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.
Quick Links
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