VA Disability Rating for Arteriosclerosis and Atherosclerosis 

Arteriosclerosis, which involves the thickening and hardening of the arteries, can restrict blood flow and lead to serious cardiovascular issues for veterans who developed this condition. If this can be linked to military service, you may qualify for VA disability compensation. 

Do You Have Atherosclerosis? 

This type of arteriosclerosis is the buildup of plaque—a mixture of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances—inside the arteries. The plaque hardens over time, narrowing the arteries and reducing the flow of oxygen-rich blood to vital organs. Atherosclerosis can lead to various complications, including coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. 

The Ratings for Atherosclerosis and Arteriosclerosis

The VA rates atherosclerosis under the broader category of arteriosclerotic heart disease (coronary artery disease) depending on the affected arteries and the severity of the condition.  

• 100% Rating: Heart failure symptoms occur at a workload of 3.0 METs or less. 
• 60% Rating: Heart failure symptoms occur at a workload of >3.1-5.0 METs. 
• 30% Rating: Heart failure symptoms occur at a workload of >5.1-7.0 METs, or there is evidence of heart enlargement (hypertrophy or dilatation) confirmed by imaging. 
• 10% Rating: Heart failure symptoms occur at a workload of >7.1-10.0 METs, or continuous medication is required for control. 

Notes: 

• If arteriosclerotic heart disease (non-service-connected) is superimposed on a service-connected heart condition, a medical opinion will be needed to determine which condition is causing the symptoms. 
• Cor pulmonale (a form of secondary heart disease) is evaluated as part of the underlying pulmonary condition. 
• MET (metabolic equivalent) measures energy use during activities, with one MET being the energy cost of standing quietly. If an exercise test can’t be performed, the examiner can estimate the METs based on the level of activity that triggers symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest pain. 

Atherosclerosis and Its Connection to Military Service 

Veterans may develop arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis due to various service-related factors, such as exposure to Agent Orange, prolonged stress, or poor diet during service. For those exposed to Agent Orange, atherosclerosis may be presumptively service-connected if the veteran served in areas where this herbicide was used. 

Winning a 60% VA Disability Rating for Coronary Artery Disease with Arteriosclerosis: Case Example 

In this case, a veteran who served in the U.S. military from January 1968 to October 1969 filed a claim for disability benefits due to coronary artery disease with arteriosclerosis. Initially, the veteran received a non-compensable (0%) disability rating but believed his symptoms were more severe than reflected in the rating. After appealing the decision, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals reviewed the evidence. 

The Board ultimately decided to increase the disability rating to 60% for coronary artery disease with arteriosclerosis, effective from October 19, 2010. This decision was based on medical evidence showing the veteran’s ejection fraction of 45 +/- 5 percent, which met the criteria for a 60% disability rating under Diagnostic Code 7005. The rating criteria for this condition has since changed from Ejection Fraction to METs. 

Key Factors That Contributed to Winning the Claim 

• Detailed Medical Evidence: The veteran’s case was supported by comprehensive medical records, including VA examination reports and diagnostic tests. An echocardiogram conducted on October 19, 2010, revealed coronary artery disease with an ejection fraction of 45 +/- 5 percent. These findings were crucial in meeting the criteria for a 60% disability rating under Diagnostic Code 7005. 
• Diagnostic Test Results: The results of the October 19, 2010, echocardiogram played a pivotal role in the appeal. This test provided objective evidence of the veteran’s coronary artery disease, which directly supported the increase in the disability rating. 
• Consistent Medical Documentation: Throughout the appeal process, the veteran’s medical records consistently documented the presence of generalized arteriosclerosis and its progression to coronary artery disease. This continuous documentation of the veteran’s condition was vital in supporting his claim for a higher rating. 

This case highlights the importance of thorough medical documentation and the role of diagnostic tests in appealing a VA disability rating. Veterans facing similar situations should ensure that their medical records and test results accurately reflect the severity of their condition. 

Strengthening Your Arteriosclerosis VA Claim 

When filing a VA disability claim, it’s essential to provide thorough medical documentation that demonstrates the severity of your condition and its connection to your military service or a service-connected condition like hypertension. Here are some steps to strengthen your claim: 

• Medical Nexus: Ensure you have a clear medical opinion linking your arteriosclerosis to your service or a secondary condition. 
• Document Symptoms: Keep detailed records of your symptoms, including the frequency and severity of chest pain, shortness of breath, and other related issues, including the list of activities you are unable to do without having chest pain, shortness of breath and/or other cardiac symptoms. 
• Agent Orange Exposure: If you were exposed to Agent Orange, gather evidence of your exposure and provide it with your claim. 

Filing a VA Claim 

If you believe your condition is connected to your military service or a service-connected condition, here’s how to correctly file a claim: 

• Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant medical records, including documentation of your symptoms and a medical nexus statement. 
• Complete VA Form 21-526EZ: Use this form to apply for disability compensation. 
• Submit Your Claim: Submit your claim online through the VA’s eBenefits portal, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. 
• Seek Assistance: Consider working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or legal representative to help navigate the claims process. 

Have you been denied benefits for arteriosclerosis or believe your rating is too low? Get in touch for a free evaluation of your case.

Content Reviewed by

Cassandra Crosby

Cassandra, an Accredited Agent and claims advocate for Matthew Hill & Shelly Mark’s teams, reviewed the information provided in this post.