Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is rated under DC 6847 based on the severity of the condition and what treatment is required. The VA requires a sleep study to establish a diagnosis. Home sleep studies are acceptable if a qualified medical provider determines they are appropriate and reviews the results. Important: being prescribed a CPAP or other breathing assistance device qualifies for a 50% rating. You do not have to actually use the device to maintain the rating, as long as it has been prescribed.
VA Rating Levels
Diagnosed sleep apnea, but asymptomatic with no current symptoms.
Persistent daytime sleepiness or not feeling rested after sleeping.
Requires the use of a breathing assistance device such as a CPAP, APAP, BiPAP, oral appliance (mandibular advancement device), nasal dilator, or implanted nerve stimulation device.
Chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention, or cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure from lung disease), or the condition requires a tracheostomy.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →The VA cannot grant service connection for sleep apnea without a sleep study. If you suspect you have it, get a study done before filing. Home sleep tests are accepted as long as a qualified provider ordered and reviewed them.
- →If you have been prescribed a CPAP or similar device, that alone supports a 50% rating. You do not need to prove you use it every night, just that it has been prescribed for your condition.
- →Sleep apnea is one of the most commonly claimed secondary conditions. It is often linked to PTSD, sinusitis, rhinitis, obesity from other service-connected conditions, or neck injuries.
- →Other qualifying breathing devices include APAP, BiPAP, oral appliances like mandibular advancement devices, tongue-retaining mouthpieces, nasal stents, and implanted nerve stimulation devices.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.97, DC 6847