Varicose veins are more than a cosmetic issue. For many veterans, they cause chronic pain, swelling, skin changes, ulcers, and serious circulation problems that interfere with work, mobility, and daily life. Long hours of standing, marching, wearing heavy gear, and limited mobility during service can all contribute to the development or worsening of varicose veins.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes varicose veins as a compensable disability and rates them based on severity, symptoms, and functional impact. Depending on how advanced the condition is, veterans may qualify for ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, as well as additional compensation for secondary conditions.
This guide explains how the VA rates varicose veins, how to establish service connection, and what steps you can take to strengthen your claim in 2026.
Varicose Veins in Veterans
Varicose veins occur when veins most often in the legs become enlarged, twisted, and unable to properly circulate blood back to the heart. This leads to blood pooling in the lower extremities, causing visible veins, swelling, aching, fatigue, and skin complications.
Among veterans, varicose veins are commonly linked to:
- Prolonged standing or marching
- Extended periods of immobility
- Wearing heavy equipment
- Repetitive strain on the legs
“Conditions that involve prolonged standing and limited circulation are well-known contributors to venous disease,” said Dr. Alan Pierce, vascular specialist.
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For some veterans, varicose veins remain mild. For others, they progress into chronic venous insufficiency, leading to ulcers, infections, and constant pain.
How the VA Rates Varicose Veins (Diagnostic Code 7121)?
The VA rates varicose veins under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7121, which covers chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Ratings are based on symptom severity, persistence, and how much the condition interferes with daily functioning.
The VA looks closely at:
- Frequency and persistence of swelling (edema)
- Skin changes such as pigmentation or eczema
- Presence of ulcers
- Pain at rest
- Response to elevation or compression therapy
“The VA does not rate varicose veins based on appearance alone it focuses on functional impact and medical complications,” explained by Brian Reese, VA disability expert.
VA Rating Levels for Varicose Veins
The VA assigns ratings at 0%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 100%.
| VA Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Asymptomatic, visible or palpable varicose veins |
| 10% | Intermittent edema or aching and fatigue after prolonged standing or walking; symptoms relieved by elevation or compression |
| 20% | Persistent edema not fully relieved by elevation, with or without beginning skin changes |
| 40% | Persistent edema and skin changes (stasis pigmentation or eczema), with or without intermittent ulceration |
| 60% | Persistent edema or induration, skin changes, and persistent ulceration |
| 100% | Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest |
Higher ratings reflect severe circulation impairment and ongoing medical complications.
Establishing Service Connection for Varicose Veins
To receive VA disability compensation, veterans must establish service connection. This generally involves three elements.
1. Present Diagnosis
While a current diagnosis strengthens a claim, varicose veins are unique. In Barr v. Nicholson (2007), it was recognized that varicose veins are observable by non-medical individuals.
“Veteran lay testimony can be competent evidence for conditions that are visibly identifiable, such as varicose veins,” explained by Laura Bennett, veterans law analyst.
That means credible statements describing visible veins, swelling, and symptoms can help establish the condition.
2. In-Service Event or Exposure
Veterans must show that something during service caused or aggravated the condition. Common examples include:
- Prolonged standing or marching
- Extended immobility
- Repetitive leg strain
- Environmental or occupational stressors
Service records, duty descriptions, and buddy statements can support this element.
3. Medical Nexus
A medical nexus links the current condition to service. A healthcare provider’s opinion explaining how military duties contributed to varicose veins can be decisive.
“Strong nexus opinions often make the difference between approval and denial,” said Brian Reese.
Secondary Conditions Linked to Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can lead to other serious medical issues. If these conditions develop due to service-connected varicose veins, veterans may qualify for secondary service connection, increasing total compensation.
Common Secondary Conditions
| Secondary Condition | How It’s Related |
|---|---|
| Chronic venous insufficiency | Progression of vein dysfunction |
| Venous stasis dermatitis | Skin damage from poor circulation |
| Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) | Blood clots due to venous disease |
| Leg ulcers | Breakdown of skin and tissue |
| Chronic pain syndrome | Ongoing pain and mobility loss |
“If varicose veins cause additional medical problems, those conditions should be claimed separately,” said Dr. Alan Pierce.
Secondary claims require medical evidence linking the new condition to varicose veins.
VA Disability Compensation and Processing
Once service connection is established, compensation depends on your assigned rating.
| VA Rating | Monthly Compensation Impact |
|---|---|
| 10%–20% | Mild to moderate symptoms |
| 40%–60% | Significant functional impairment |
| 100% | Severe, constant pain and swelling |
Ratings may be assigned separately for each leg if both are affected, which can significantly increase compensation.
Why This Matters for Veterans?
Varicose veins are often underestimated, yet they can:
- Limit standing and walking
- Interfere with employment
- Cause chronic pain and infections
- Require ongoing medical treatment
“Many veterans accept varicose vein symptoms as ‘normal aging’ and miss out on benefits they qualify for,” said Brian Reese.
Proper documentation and a well-prepared claim can make a meaningful difference in healthcare access and financial stability.
Final Thought
If varicose veins affect your mobility, comfort, or quality of life, you may qualify for VA disability benefits. The VA recognizes this condition under Diagnostic Code 7121, with ratings based on severity and complications.
Veterans should document symptoms carefully, gather medical and lay evidence, and consider secondary conditions such as venous stasis dermatitis or DVT. The clearer the evidence showing how varicose veins limit daily life, the stronger the claim will be.
FAQs
What is the VA disability rating for varicose veins?
The VA rates varicose veins at 0%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, or 100%, depending on severity.
Can I receive VA disability benefits for varicose veins?
Yes, if you can establish service connection and meet rating criteria.
Do I need a doctor’s diagnosis to file a claim?
A diagnosis helps, but credible lay evidence can also support the claim.
What evidence strengthens a varicose veins claim?
Medical records, service history, nexus opinions, and lay statements.
Can I claim secondary conditions related to varicose veins?
Yes, conditions like venous stasis dermatitis or DVT may qualify.
