Sinusitis/Rhinitis VA Rating Guide

Overview

Inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages causing congestion, pain, and discharge. Common in veterans exposed to burn pits, desert sand, chemicals, or other environmental hazards during service.

• VA Disability Code: 6510
• ICD Code: J32.9
• Category: Respiratory

Rating Percentages & Criteria

50% Rating

Criteria: Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis

Examples:

• Major surgery complications
• Chronic bone infection

30% Rating

Criteria: Three or more incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged antibiotic treatment, or; more than six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting

Examples:

• Frequent severe infections
• Multiple courses of antibiotics

10% Rating

Criteria: One or two incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged antibiotic treatment, or; three to six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting

Examples:

• Moderate frequency of infections
• Regular treatment needed

0% Rating

Criteria: Detected by X-ray only

Examples:

• Evidence on imaging but minimal symptoms

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Nasal congestion and discharge
• Facial pain and pressure
• Headaches
• Post-nasal drip
• Reduced sense of smell
• Cough, especially at night
• Fatigue
• Difficulty breathing through nose

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• CT scan or X-ray of sinuses
• ENT examination reports
• Medical records of sinusitis diagnosis
• Treatment records and antibiotic courses
• Documentation of incapacitating episodes

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Sleep Apnea (Strong Connection)

Nasal congestion can obstruct airways during sleep

Migraines (Moderate Connection)

Sinus pressure can trigger migraines

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

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

• Keep log of sinusitis episodes
• Document antibiotic treatments
• Bring imaging results
• Note incapacitating vs non-incapacitating episodes

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between incapacitating and non-incapacitating episodes?

Incapacitating episodes require bed rest and prevent you from working or performing daily activities.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Sinusitis/Rhinitis:

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 - Sinusitis/Rhinitis 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:

• Sleep Apnea VA Rating Guide
• Migraines VA Rating Guide