Asthma VA Rating Guide

Overview

A chronic respiratory condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, resulting in breathing difficulties. Common in veterans from burn pit exposure, Gulf War service, and environmental hazards. A PACT Act presumptive condition for certain veterans.

• VA Disability Code: 6602
• ICD Code: J45.909
• Category: Respiratory

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: FEV-1 less than 40 percent predicted, or; FEV-1/FVC less than 40 percent, or; more than one attack per week with episodes of respiratory failure, or; requires daily use of systemic (oral or parenteral) high dose corticosteroids or immuno-suppressive medications.

Examples:

• Severely reduced lung function
• Frequent respiratory failure
• Requires high-dose steroids daily

60% Rating

Criteria: FEV-1 of 40 to 55 percent predicted, or; FEV-1/FVC of 40 to 55 percent, or; at least monthly visits to a physician for required care of exacerbations, or; intermittent (at least three per year) courses of systemic (oral or parenteral) corticosteroids.

Examples:

• Moderate lung function impairment
• Monthly doctor visits
• Multiple steroid courses per year

30% Rating

Criteria: FEV-1 of 56 to 70 percent predicted, or; FEV-1/FVC of 56 to 70 percent, or; daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy, or; inhalational anti-inflammatory medication.

Examples:

• Daily inhaler use
• Moderate symptoms
• Regular maintenance medication

10% Rating

Criteria: FEV-1 of 71 to 80 percent predicted, or; FEV-1/FVC of 71 to 80 percent, or; intermittent inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy.

Examples:

• Mild symptoms
• Occasional inhaler use
• Exercise-induced symptoms

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Chronic cough
• Difficulty breathing during exercise
• Night-time symptoms
• Increased mucus production
• Symptoms triggered by allergens or irritants

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Pulmonary function test (PFT) results
• Medical records documenting asthma diagnosis
• Documentation of toxic exposure or burn pit exposure
• Treatment records and medication list
• Service records showing environmental hazards

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Sinusitis/Rhinitis (Strong Connection)

Upper airway inflammation often accompanies asthma

Sleep Apnea (Moderate Connection)

Asthma and sleep apnea can worsen each other

GERD (Moderate Connection)

GERD can trigger asthma symptoms

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Bring all PFT results
• List all inhalers and medications with frequency of use
• Document emergency room visits or hospitalizations
• Describe triggers and how you avoid them
• Explain impact on work and daily activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is asthma a PACT Act presumptive condition?

Yes. Asthma is presumptive for veterans who served in areas with toxic exposure, including burn pits.

What if I developed asthma after service?

You may still be eligible if you can show toxic exposure during service caused your asthma, especially under the PACT Act.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Asthma:

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - Asthma often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• Sinusitis/Rhinitis VA Rating Guide
• Sleep Apnea VA Rating Guide
• GERD VA Rating Guide