Ischemic Heart Disease VA Rating Guide

Overview

A condition where reduced blood flow to the heart muscle is caused by coronary artery disease. Presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange or radiation, also linked to hypertension and diabetes.

• VA Disability Code: 7005
• ICD Code: I25.9
• Category: Cardiovascular

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: Chronic heart failure, or; during and for three months after initial evaluation following hospital admission for myocardial infarction

Examples:

• Congestive heart failure
• Recent heart attack

60% Rating

Criteria: Workload of greater than 3 METs but not greater than 5 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or; left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction of 30 to 50 percent

Examples:

• Significant activity limitation
• Reduced heart function

30% Rating

Criteria: Workload of greater than 5 METs but not greater than 7 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or; evidence of cardiac hypertrophy or dilatation on electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, or X-ray

Examples:

• Moderate activity limitation
• Cardiac changes on testing

10% Rating

Criteria: Workload of greater than 7 METs but not greater than 10 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or; continuous medication required

Examples:

• Mild limitation
• On cardiac medications

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Chest pain or angina
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue during exertion
• Heart palpitations
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Pain radiating to arm, jaw, or back

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Cardiac catheterization results
• Stress test results
• Echocardiogram results
• EKG/ECG results
• Medical records of heart disease diagnosis

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Erectile Dysfunction (Moderate Connection)

Reduced blood flow and cardiovascular medications can cause ED

Depression (Strong Connection)

Heart disease significantly impacts quality of life

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

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

• Bring all cardiac test results
• Document activity limitations in METs
• List all cardiac medications
• Note any hospitalizations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ischemic heart disease presumptive for Agent Orange?

Yes. Ischemic heart disease is a presumptive condition for veterans with qualifying Agent Orange exposure.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Ischemic Heart Disease:

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 - Ischemic Heart Disease 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:

• Erectile Dysfunction VA Rating Guide
• Depression VA Rating Guide