If you’ve filed a VA disability claim for vertigo, being scheduled for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam is a normal and critical step. This exam is not medical treatment. Instead, it exists solely to help the VA decide whether your condition is service-connected and how severe it is for rating purposes.
Vertigo affects thousands of veterans and is often linked to traumatic brain injuries, blast exposure, inner ear damage, migraines, or hearing-related conditions. Because vertigo symptoms can fluctuate and aren’t always visible, many claims hinge on how well symptoms and functional impact are explained during the exam.
“The C&P exam is where most vertigo claims are won or lost because the VA relies heavily on examiner documentation to determine severity,” explained Brian Reese, VA disability expert.
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Understanding what happens and how to prepare can significantly improve how accurately your condition is rated.
How the VA Rates Vertigo?
The VA evaluates vertigo under 38 CFR § 4.87, Schedule of Ratings for the Ear. Ratings are based on frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms, along with how much those symptoms interfere with work and daily life.
VA Vertigo Rating
| Diagnostic Code | Condition | Possible Ratings | Key Symptoms Considered |
|---|---|---|---|
| DC 6204 | Peripheral Vestibular Disorders | 10% or 30% | Dizziness, staggering, balance problems |
| DC 6205 | Meniere’s Syndrome | 30%, 60%, 100% | Vertigo attacks, hearing loss, cerebellar gait, tinnitus |
“A vertigo diagnosis alone doesn’t guarantee a higher rating,” said Brian Reese. “The VA focuses on how often attacks occur and how badly they disrupt your ability to function day to day.”
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The highest schedular rating for vertigo is 100 percent, but it requires severe and frequent attacks with major functional impairment.
Why the VA Orders a C&P Exam for Vertigo?
A vertigo C&P exam serves three purposes:
- Confirming a current diagnosis
- Determining whether the condition is service-connected
- Measuring symptom severity and functional impairment
“Even veterans already receiving VA healthcare are usually required to attend a C&P exam because it standardizes the evidence for rating,” explained Reese.
Skipping or underpreparing for the exam can lead to an undervalued rating or denial.
What to Expect at a VA C&P Exam for Vertigo?
Most vertigo C&P exams are conducted in person to allow direct observation.
1. Review of Medical History
The examiner reviews your VA and private records, including ENT or neurology notes, imaging, and treatment history.
“Examiners already have access to your file, but clarity during your answers helps them connect symptoms to real-world limitations,” Reese said.
2. Discussion of Symptoms
Expect detailed questions about:
- Onset of vertigo
- Frequency of episodes
- Duration of attacks
- Severity of dizziness or spinning
- Associated symptoms like nausea, imbalance, or fatigue
Your rating depends heavily on this section.
3. Physical and Balance Evaluation
The examiner may observe your gait, coordination, and eye movements. Safety always comes first.
“Never push through dizziness during testing just to ‘tough it out,’” Reese explained. “Your symptoms need to be documented accurately.”
4. Functional Impact Assessment
You’ll be asked how vertigo affects:
- Employment
- Driving
- Standing or walking
- Daily independence
“Functional impact is the language VA raters understand best,” said Reese. “Specific examples carry far more weight than general statements.”
5. Diagnostic Testing
Balance tests or hearing exams may be performed or referenced from prior records.
6. Completion of the VA DBQ
All findings are documented on the VA Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), which heavily influences the final decision.
Common Questions Asked During a Vertigo C&P Exam
You may be asked:
- How often do vertigo episodes occur?
- How long do they last?
- Do you stagger or lose balance?
- Do you experience hearing loss or tinnitus?
- Has vertigo affected your job or driving?
- Are you on continuous medication?
“Answer based on your worst days, not your best,” advised Reese. “Many veterans unintentionally downplay symptoms, which hurts their rating.”
How to Prepare for Your VA Vertigo C&P Exam?
1. Gather Relevant Records
Review diagnoses, specialist notes, and treatment history beforehand.
2. Keep a Symptom Diary
Track:
- Frequency
- Severity
- Duration
- Triggers
- Recovery time
“A symptom log helps you stay consistent and credible during questioning,” Reese said.
3. List Functional Limitations
Write down how vertigo affects work, safety, and independence.
4. Review DBQ Topics
Knowing what examiners must document helps you stay focused.
5. Be Honest and Detailed
Avoid minimizing symptoms out of habit or pride.
“The VA can only rate what’s documented,” explained Reese. “If it’s not said, it doesn’t exist to the rater.”
What Happens After the Exam?
After the exam:
- The examiner submits the DBQ
- A VA rater reviews the evidence
- Your claim is approved, denied, or deferred
- A written decision is mailed explaining why
FAQs
Is a C&P exam mandatory for vertigo?
Usually yes. The VA relies on standardized exam findings.
Can vertigo be rated secondary to another condition?
Yes. It’s often secondary to migraines, TBI, or ear disorders.
What rating do most vertigo claims receive?
Common ratings range from 10% to 30%, depending on severity.
Should I bring records to my exam?
Optional, but helpful for reference.
What if symptoms aren’t present on exam day?
Explain overall frequency and severity over time.
