Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not function effectively. This can lead to the build-up of waste products in the body, which can cause a variety of health issues.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to function properly. Over time, this can lead to chronic kidney disease.
VA Ratings for Chronic Kidney Disease Secondary to Hypertension
The VA assigns disability ratings based on the severity of a veteran’s condition and its impact on their ability to work. Chronic kidney disease can be rated as a secondary condition to hypertension if it is found to be caused or aggravated by the veteran’s hypertension.
Rating Criteria
According to VA regulations, chronic kidney disease is rated based on the level of kidney function, the need for dialysis, and other symptoms such as edema or complications in other organs.
The ratings typically range from 0% to 100%, with higher percentages reflecting more severe disability. To view more information visit the Code of Federal Regulations.
- 0% Rating: Minimal symptoms that do not interfere with daily life.
- 30% Rating: GFR from 60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m2 and albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) ≥30 mg/g for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months.
- 60% Rating: Chronic kidney disease with GFR from 30 to 44 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months
- 80% Rating: Chronic kidney disease with GFR from 15 to 29 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months.
- 100% Rating: Chronic kidney disease with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 15 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months; or requiring regular routine dialysis; or eligible kidney transplant recipient.
Master the VA Disability Claims Process
How a Veteran Secured a Higher Rating for Hypertension with Chronic Renal Disease and Hypertensive Heart Disease
Claim File Referenced Here
A veteran who served on active duty from June 1993 to June 1998 filed a claim for service connection for hypertension. Initially, the veteran was granted service connection and assigned a 10% rating, effective from February 16, 2010. The veteran appealed this decision, seeking a higher rating due to the severity of his condition.
Initial Appeal and Medical Evidence: The veteran’s appeal emphasized that his hypertension was severe and hard to control, even with multiple medications. He provided evidence of consistently high diastolic pressures, often exceeding 130. Key evidence included a May 2011 VA exam showing diastolic pressures above 130 in two out of three readings. A February 2011 letter from the chief of the renal department confirmed the severity, noting blood pressures frequently over 200/130.
Increased Rating Granted: The Board awarded a 60% rating for hypertension with hypertensive heart disease and chronic renal disease from February 16, 2010, to June 12, 2013. This decision was based on the veteran’s diastolic pressures predominantly being 130 or more during this period.
Further Appeal for Higher Rating: The veteran sought a higher rating, and in September 2014, the VA increased it to 80% effective June 13, 2013, due to worsening conditions, including generalized poor health, lethargy, weakness, and limited exertion caused by renal dysfunction.
Denial of Ratings Above 60% and 80%: The Board denied ratings higher than 60% before June 13, 2013, and above 80% afterward. The evidence did not show the need for regular dialysis, significantly decreased kidney function, or left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction below 30%, which are required for higher ratings.
Award of Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU): The veteran was granted TDIU effective February 16, 2010, due to his service-connected hypertension, hypertensive heart disease, and chronic renal disease, which made him unable to maintain substantially gainful employment.
Get Help With Your VA Disability Claim
Key Factors for Success:
- Consistent Medical Documentation: The veteran’s medical records consistently showed severe hypertension with diastolic pressures predominantly over 130, along with additional complications like chronic renal disease and hypertensive heart disease.
- Expert Medical Opinion: A letter from the veteran’s treating physician described the severity of the hypertension and provided a detailed assessment, which played a significant role in supporting the veteran’s claim.
- Detailed VA Examinations: The veteran’s VA examinations documented the progression of his condition, including the impact on his overall health and ability to work, which were crucial in securing both the increased rating and the TDIU.
The veteran’s persistence in appealing the initial decision, combined with comprehensive medical evidence, ultimately led to an increased disability rating and recognition of his unemployability due to his service-connected conditions.
How to Strengthen Your Claim
Understanding the key elements that contributed to the successful claims mentioned above can help veterans strengthen their own cases for VA disability benefits. Here’s how:
Gather Comprehensive Medical Evidence
Medical evidence is the cornerstone of a successful VA disability claim for chronic kidney disease secondary to hypertension. Veterans should collect:
- Detailed medical records from both VA and private doctors.
- Test results showing kidney function over time.
- Statements from medical professionals linking kidney disease to hypertension.
Utilize Expert Opinions
Expert opinions, especially from nephrologists, can significantly bolster a claim. Veterans should seek detailed reports from specialists who can explain how hypertension has impacted their kidney function.
Document Symptom Progression
Keeping a thorough record of symptoms and their progression can provide compelling evidence. Veterans should document:
- Frequency and severity of symptoms.
- Impact on daily activities.
- Any changes in treatment or medication.
Securing VA disability for chronic kidney disease secondary to hypertension involves a thorough understanding of the condition, diligent documentation, and robust medical evidence. Veterans and their families should seek comprehensive medical evaluations and legal assistance to navigate the complexities of the VA claims process.
Content Reviewed by
Attorney Matthew Hill
Attorney Matthew Hill, licensed in Florida and Washington D.C., a dedicated advocate for disabled veterans with over two decades of experience, reviewed the information in this post.
