Vagus Nerve (Cranial Nerve X)
The vagus nerve (X cranial nerve, also called the tenth nerve) helps control swallowing, speaking, and aspects of heart function. Damage can cause difficulty swallowing and speaking, as well as elevated heart rate and blood pressure. This is one of the 6 cranial nerves rated under the cranial nerve schedule. It can be rated under paralysis (DC 8210), neuritis (DC 8310), or neuralgia (DC 8410). Separate evaluations for each side are possible, and cranial nerves are NOT eligible for the bilateral factor.
VA Rating Levels
Incomplete paralysis - moderate. Some difficulty with swallowing or speaking.
Incomplete paralysis - severe. Notable difficulty with swallowing, speaking, or heart function impacts.
Complete paralysis. High heart rate, high blood pressure, difficulty swallowing and speaking.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Rated under one category only - paralysis, neuritis, or neuralgia - whichever is the primary disability.
- →This nerve has one of the higher maximum ratings among cranial nerves at 50% for complete paralysis.
- →Separate evaluations for each side are possible since there is a pair of vagus nerves.
- →Cranial nerves are NOT eligible for the bilateral factor.
- →This is a presumptive condition if diagnosed within one year of separation and the severity warranted at least 10% within that time.
- →If heart issues are caused by the vagus nerve condition, they may alternatively be rated under the cardiovascular system schedule if it would yield a higher rating.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8210/8310/8410