Hypertension
Hypertensive vascular disease. Diagnostic Code 7101.
Overview
Hypertension is high blood pressure. Over time it can strain the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels.
How VA rates it
Diagnostic Code 7101 · 38 CFR 4.104
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 |
|---|---|
| 60% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. |
| 40% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more. |
| 20% | Diastolic predominantly 110 or more, or systolic predominantly 200 or more. |
| 10% | Diastolic predominantly 100 or more, systolic predominantly 160 or more, or a history of diastolic 100 or more with continuous medication for control. |
The regulation requires readings taken two or more times on at least three different days.
Common secondary connections
These are conditions often discussed in connection with Hypertension. 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.
- Often discussed as secondary to kidney conditions, sleep apnea, or PTSD
- Heart disease
- Erectile dysfunction
Presumptive notes
VA added hypertension as an Agent Orange presumptive condition under the PACT Act. 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:
- Blood pressure readings over time
- Medication records
- Service records showing qualifying locations
- 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 4.104 on eCFR. Rules change; always confirm the current text.
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