VA Diagnostic Code 6204Peripheral vestibular disorders:
Rated from 10% to 30% under § 4.87. Here is what the VA requires at each level.
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What each rating requires
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- 30%
Dizziness and occasional staggering
- 10%
Occasional dizziness
Notes on this code
These notes are part of the regulation. They change how the levels above are applied.
- Note: Objective findings supporting the diagnosis of vestibular disequilibrium are required before a compensable evaluation can be assigned under this code. Hearing impairment or suppuration shall be separately rated and combined.
Peripheral Vestibular Disorders (VA Diagnostic Code 6204)
Understanding This Condition
Peripheral vestibular disorders affect the balance system of the inner ear. Under the VA rating schedule, this condition is evaluated under Diagnostic Code 6204 within 38 CFR § 4.87, part of the body system covering Impairment of Auditory Acuity.
Symptoms recognized under this code center on dizziness and problems with balance, such as staggering.
Available Rating Levels
The VA assigns a disability rating based on the severity and frequency of symptoms:
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Dizziness and occasional staggering |
| 10% | Occasional dizziness |
What the VA Looks For
When evaluating a peripheral vestibular disorder under Diagnostic Code 6204, the VA considers the following:
- Objective findings are required. Before a compensable evaluation can be assigned under this code, there must be objective findings supporting the diagnosis of vestibular disequilibrium.
- The frequency and degree of dizziness and balance disturbance, which determine whether the condition falls at the 10% level (occasional dizziness) or the 30% level (dizziness and occasional staggering).
- Related conditions are rated separately. Any hearing impairment or suppuration shall be separately rated and then combined.
This information is drawn from the VA rating schedule for Diagnostic Code 6204 (§ 4.87). It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.87, diagnostic code 6204. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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