Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)
Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7101, from 10% to 60% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 60% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, or; systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more, or; minimum evaluation for an individual with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who requires continuous medication for control
Note: Hypertension ratings are based on blood pressure readings taken at multiple times over at least one visit, or a history of readings meeting the criteria. "Predominantly" means a majority (more than half) of the readings taken.
Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more, or; systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more
Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more
Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more
Note: Diastolic pressure of 130+ represents malignant/hypertensive emergency range. This rating is rarely achieved without associated end-organ damage. Veterans with hypertension and secondary heart disease, kidney disease, or stroke may have multiple separate ratings.
“Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
View 3 secondary conditions linked to Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
The VA rates Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) under Diagnostic Code 7101 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, or; systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more, or; minimum evaluation for an individual with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who requires continuous medication for control. The maximum 60% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
The VA rates Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7101, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 60% rating for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
A 10% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, or; systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more, or; minimum evaluation for an individual with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who requires continuous medication for control. A 60% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
Service connection for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) is associated with 3 documented secondary conditions. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What is the C&P exam like for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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