Peripheral Vestibular Disorders
Peripheral vestibular disorders (PVD) are rated under DC 6204. These conditions affect the ears' ability to sense balance, causing symptoms like dizziness, vertigo (sensation of spinning), and motion sickness. In order to receive at least a 10% rating, the condition must be diagnosed through objective testing, not just the veteran's subjective reports of dizziness. Important: vertigo itself is considered a symptom, not a standalone diagnosis, so it cannot be granted a separate evaluation secondary to another condition. However, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is its own diagnosed condition and can be rated secondarily. TBI cannot be rated analogously as a balance disorder even if it would produce a higher evaluation.
VA Rating Levels
Occasional dizziness confirmed by objective testing.
Dizziness severe enough to cause occasional staggering when walking.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Objective testing is required for a rating. Subjective reports of dizziness alone are not enough. Request vestibular function testing such as videonystagmography (VNG) or electronystagmography (ENG).
- →If your vertigo is secondary to tinnitus, it will typically be rated as 'tinnitus with vertigo' at a maximum of 10%. Only the Board of Veterans' Appeals and higher courts can grant secondary vertigo as a separate evaluation.
- →BPPV is a diagnosed condition separate from just 'vertigo as a symptom' and can be rated secondarily to another service-connected condition.
- →If your dizziness causes you to stagger when walking, make sure that is clearly documented by your provider. That is the difference between 10% and 30%.
- →Balance disorders can significantly impact daily functioning and employment. Document how dizziness affects your ability to work, drive, and perform daily activities for possible extraschedular consideration.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6204