Migraines VA Rating Guide

Overview

Severe recurring headaches often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances, commonly linked to head injuries, stress, or other service-connected conditions in veterans.

• VA Disability Code: 8100
• ICD Code: G43.909
• Category: Neurological

Rating Percentages & Criteria

50% Rating

Criteria: With very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability

Examples:

• Frequent attacks requiring bed rest
• Unable to work during attacks
• Severe functional impairment

30% Rating

Criteria: With characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on an average once a month over last several months

Examples:

• Monthly prostrating attacks
• Requires bed rest
• Significant work impact

10% Rating

Criteria: With characteristic prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months over last several months

Examples:

• Prostrating attack every 2 months
• Episodic severe symptoms

0% Rating

Criteria: With less frequent attacks

Examples:

• Infrequent attacks
• Minimal functional impact

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Intense throbbing head pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Visual disturbances (aura)
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Neck stiffness

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Headache diary documenting frequency and severity
• Medical records of migraine diagnosis
• Neurology evaluation reports
• Treatment records and medications
• Emergency room visits for severe attacks
• Work absence documentation

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Depression (Strong Connection)

Chronic migraines significantly impact quality of life and can lead to depression

Anxiety (Strong Connection)

Anticipation and stress of migraine attacks can cause anxiety

Sleep Apnea (Moderate Connection)

Poor sleep from migraines can contribute to sleep disorders

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

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

• Keep a detailed headache diary for at least 3 months
• Document frequency, duration, and severity of attacks
• Note how attacks affect work and daily activities
• Bring records of emergency room visits
• List all medications tried and their effectiveness

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'prostrating' mean for migraines?

Prostrating means the migraine is severe enough that you must stop all activity and lie down, typically in a dark, quiet room.

Do I need to prove my migraines started in service?

You need to show service connection, which can be direct (started in service), secondary (caused by another condition), or aggravated (made worse by service).

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Migraines:

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 - Migraines 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:

• Depression VA Rating Guide
• Anxiety VA Rating Guide
• Sleep Apnea VA Rating Guide