If you served in Vietnam or other qualifying areas and now suffer from heart disease, your condition might be connected to Agent Orange exposure and you may be entitled to VA disability benefits.
Ischemic heart disease (IHD), also known as coronary artery disease, is one of the most common conditions linked to Agent Orange. The VA presumes service connection for veterans who served in certain locations during specific periods, meaning you don’t need to prove a direct link between your heart disease and military service.
“The VA’s presumptive list for Agent Orange has been a life-changing policy for many veterans,” says Dr. Karen Michaels, a cardiologist who works with retired military personnel. “If you served in Vietnam and have ischemic heart disease, the law is already on your side you just have to claim what’s rightfully yours.”
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Overview: Ischemic Heart Disease and Agent Orange
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Condition Name | Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) / Coronary Artery Disease |
| Linked Toxin | Agent Orange (Dioxin exposure) |
| VA Diagnostic Code | 7005 |
| Presumptive Service Connection | Yes — Vietnam, Korean DMZ, Thailand bases |
| VA Rating Range | 10% – 100% |
| Possible Symptoms | Chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, fainting, heart failure |
| Average Monthly Pay (2025) | $175 – $3,831 (single veteran, no dependents) |
| Claim Form | VA Form 21-526EZ |
| Exam Type | C&P Exam (Cardiac evaluation using METs testing) |
What is Ischemic Heart Disease?
Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) commonly called coronary artery disease occurs when narrowed or blocked arteries restrict blood flow to the heart. This lack of oxygen-rich blood can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and in severe cases, heart failure.
Typical symptoms include:
- Chest pain or tightness (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in shoulders, arms, neck, or jaw
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Nausea or fainting spells
For veterans exposed to Agent Orange, the VA presumes that ischemic heart disease is service-connected. That means if you meet the service criteria, you don’t have to prove causation—it’s already assumed by law.
“Veterans don’t always realize how broad the VA’s presumptive coverage is,” says David Carter, a former VSO (Veterans Service Officer). “If you served in Vietnam, Thailand, or the Korean DMZ during the right timeframe, ischemic heart disease is automatically presumed to be caused by your exposure.”
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How Are Ischemic Heart Disease and Agent Orange Connected?
Agent Orange was a herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to clear vegetation. Unfortunately, it contained dioxin, one of the most toxic chemicals known to cause severe health issues including damage to blood vessels and internal inflammation.
Over time, this damage can narrow arteries, reduce oxygen supply, and ultimately lead to ischemic heart disease.
The VA recognizes IHD as a presumptive condition for veterans who served:
- In Vietnam: January 9, 1962 – May 7, 1975
- In Thailand (certain Royal Thai Air Force bases): January 9, 1962 – June 30, 1976
- In the Korean DMZ: September 1, 1967 – August 31, 1971
If you served in these locations and now have ischemic heart disease, you qualify automatically for presumptive service connection. You don’t need to prove exposure it’s assumed by law.
“Agent Orange exposure can cause long-term cardiovascular damage even decades later,” explains Dr. Michael Tan, a toxicology researcher. “The dioxins in Agent Orange are persistent, meaning they stay in the body and continue affecting tissue health over time.”
How the VA Rates Ischemic Heart Disease?
The VA rates ischemic heart disease based on how severely it affects your heart’s ability to function, using METs testing (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) and cardiac imaging like echocardiograms or MRIs.
VA Rating Schedule for Ischemic Heart Disease (Diagnostic Code 7005)
| VA Rating | Criteria | Typical Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | Workload ≤ 3.0 METs or chronic heart failure | Fatigue, shortness of breath at rest, severe activity limits |
| 60% | Workload 3.1–5.0 METs; or left ventricular dysfunction (30–50%) | Shortness of breath during light activity, moderate fatigue |
| 30% | Workload 5.1–7.0 METs; or cardiac hypertrophy/dilatation by imaging | Chest pain, mild activity restriction |
| 10% | Workload 7.1–10.0 METs; or continuous medication required | Fatigue, light chest pressure, controlled symptoms |
“The METs test is a critical part of the VA rating process,” notes Dr. Stephen Harris, a VA medical examiner. “It’s not just about how you feel it’s about measurable cardiac output and oxygen demand during exertion.”
Average VA Disability Payment for Ischemic Heart Disease (2025)
| VA Rating | Monthly Payment (Single Veteran) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $175.51 |
| 30% | $537.42 |
| 60% | $1,395.93 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 |
Note: Veterans with spouses, children, or dependent parents receive additional monthly compensation.
How to File a Claim for Ischemic Heart Disease and Agent Orange Exposure?
Filing for VA benefits for ischemic heart disease is more straightforward than most claims because of its presumptive status.
Here’s what you’ll need to file your claim successfully:
- A current medical diagnosis of ischemic heart disease.
- Proof of service in a qualifying location and timeframe (service records, deployment orders, etc.).
- VA Form 21-526EZ, the official disability claim form.
- Medical evidence, including test results, treatment history, and medication records.
You can file your claim:
- Online at VA.gov
- By mail (with VA Form 21-526EZ)
- In person at a VA regional office
If your claim is denied, you have options:
- File a Supplemental Claim with new evidence
- Request a Higher-Level Review
- Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Secondary Conditions Related to Ischemic Heart Disease
IHD can lead to several secondary service-connected conditions, such as:
| Secondary Condition | Possible Rating | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Congestive Heart Failure | 60%–100% | Worsening of IHD causing fluid buildup and breathing issues |
| Chronic Fatigue | 10%–30% | Reduced oxygen flow to muscles |
| Peripheral Artery Disease | 20%–60% | Restricted blood flow to extremities |
| Depression/Anxiety | 30%–70% | Emotional distress due to chronic illness |
Why This Matters for Veterans?
The connection between Agent Orange and ischemic heart disease is one of the most significant health policy recognitions for Vietnam-era veterans. It removes a massive burden of proof, allowing veterans to get benefits without having to prove the toxic exposure caused their illness.
For many, it means financial stability and access to better healthcare.
“Veterans waited decades for acknowledgment that Agent Orange exposure caused real, lasting harm,” says Colonel (Ret.) James Parker, a veteran advocate. “This policy is not just about money it’s about justice.”
Final Thought
If you served in Vietnam, Thailand, or the Korean DMZ during the eligible years and now have ischemic heart disease, you may qualify for VA disability compensation. Because it’s a presumptive condition, your path to approval is much smoother just provide a current diagnosis and proof of service.
Understanding the rating system, potential benefits, and claim filing process can help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
FAQs
What is the ischemic heart disease VA rating?
Ischemic heart disease VA ratings range from 10% to 100%, depending on test results (METs levels), heart function, and the need for continuous medication.
What is Agent Orange heart disease?
It refers to ischemic heart disease linked to Agent Orange exposure. The VA presumes it’s service-connected for veterans who served in specific locations during the Vietnam era.
What evidence is needed for an Agent Orange IHD claim?
You need a diagnosis of ischemic heart disease, proof of qualifying service, and related medical documentation.
Can ischemic heart disease cause other conditions?
Yes. It can lead to heart failure, chronic fatigue, and mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, all of which may qualify as secondary conditions.
Is there a deadline to file an ischemic heart disease claim?
There’s no deadline. Veterans can file any time after diagnosis, but earlier filing ensures faster benefits.
