Asthma
Asthma, bronchial. Diagnostic Code 6602.
Overview
Asthma narrows and inflames the airways, causing wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. VA rates it mainly by lung function tests and the type and frequency of treatment.
How VA rates it
Diagnostic Code 6602 · 38 CFR 4.97
Here is a plain language summary of the rating levels in the regulation. Read the official text for the exact wording.
| Rating | Summary of the criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Very low lung function, more than one attack per week with respiratory failure, or daily high dose systemic steroids or immunosuppressants. |
| 60% | Lung function of 40 to 55 percent predicted, at least monthly physician visits for exacerbations, or at least three courses of systemic steroids per year. |
| 30% | Lung function of 56 to 70 percent predicted, daily inhaled or oral bronchodilator therapy, or inhaled anti inflammatory medication. |
| 10% | Lung function of 71 to 80 percent predicted, or intermittent bronchodilator therapy. |
If asthma is not present at the exam, the regulation requires a verified history of attacks in the record.
Common secondary connections
These are conditions often discussed in connection with Asthma. A secondary claim generally needs medical evidence that one condition caused or worsened another. This list is general education, not a suggestion about any claim.
- GERD
- Sleep apnea
- Rhinitis and sinusitis
Presumptive notes
VA lists asthma diagnosed after service as a PACT Act presumptive condition for qualifying service locations. Read the full eligibility rules on VA.gov.
Evidence veterans generally gather
VA describes evidence types in its evidence guide. For this condition, veterans often collect:
- Pulmonary function test (PFT) results
- Medication and inhaler records
- Deployment records
- A current diagnosis from a medical provider
- Service treatment records and personnel records
- VA and private treatment records
- Statements from you, family, or fellow service members (lay statements)
- A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) completed by a provider, if available
Official source
Rating levels: 38 CFR 4.97 on eCFR. Rules change; always confirm the current text.
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