Sleep apnea is one of the most claimed VA conditions, and the rating hinges on your symptoms and treatment. Here is how the 0/30/50/100% levels work and why CPAP usually means 50%.
Sleep apnea is rated under Diagnostic Code 6847 (sleep apnea syndromes). Under the current criteria there are four levels:
Because most veterans diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea are prescribed a CPAP, the 50% level is the most common outcome.
The VA has proposed updates to how sleep apnea is rated in the future. The levels above reflect the current criteria; always confirm the latest rules on VA.gov before you file.
Many veterans claim sleep apnea as secondary to another service-connected condition — for example, weight gain from medications, PTSD, or chronic sinusitis/rhinitis. A medical nexus opinion linking the two is usually key for a secondary claim.
You will generally need a sleep study confirming the diagnosis, evidence connecting it to service (directly or secondarily), and your CPAP prescription if applicable. File on VA.gov; a VSO can help for free.
Generally yes. Under the current criteria, sleep apnea that requires the use of a breathing assistance device such as a CPAP is rated at 50%.
Yes, sleep apnea is commonly claimed as secondary to other service-connected conditions. You typically need a medical nexus opinion linking the two.
Usually yes. A sleep study confirming the diagnosis is important evidence for a sleep apnea claim.
The VA has proposed changes for the future. The 0/30/50/100% levels described here are the current criteria; confirm the latest rules on VA.gov before filing.