Respiratory · 38 CFR 4.97 · DC 6512
Chronic Sinusitis VA Disability Rating
Chronic sinusitis (DCs 6510 through 6514, depending on which sinus is affected) is rated by frequency of incapacitating episodes requiring prolonged antibiotic treatment. An 'incapacitating episode' under 38 CFR 4.97 means one requiring bed rest and treatment by a physician.
Rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Detected by x-ray only. |
| 10% | One or two incapacitating episodes per year, OR three to six non-incapacitating episodes characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge. |
| 30% | Three or more incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged (4-6 weeks) antibiotic treatment. |
| 50% | Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, OR near constant sinusitis. |
Common secondary conditions
Veterans rated for chronic sinusitis frequently file secondary-service-connection claims for:
- Sleep apnea
- Rhinitis
- Headaches
Use the calculator
Once you know the percentage assigned for this condition, plug it into the VA Combined Rating Calculator alongside any other service-connected ratings to see your combined percentage and 2026 monthly compensation.
Source citations
- 38 CFR 4.97 (eCFR)
- VA.gov current monthly compensation rates
- VA Office of General Counsel — Accreditation directory
VetDisabilityCalc is an independent reference site operated by Zoom Lifestyle LLC. We are not VA-accredited and we do not prepare or present VA claims. The information in this guide is reference material based on the cited regulations and is not legal advice. For representation, use the official VA OGC accreditation directory.