EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Atrial Fibrillation
DC 7010 | 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7010 |
Atrial Fibrillation is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 7010 of 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7010 across 4 severity tiers (100% -- Chronic CHF or workload 3 METs or less / 60% -- Workload 3-5 METs or acute CHF in past year / 30% -- Workload 5-7 METs / 10% -- Workload 7-10 METs). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303. This condition is frequently rated as secondary to Stroke or Heart Failure under 38 C.F.R. § 3.310.
OVERVIEW
Irregular and often rapid heart rhythm originating in the atria, increasing stroke risk
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
100% -- Chronic CHF or workload 3 METs or less
Documented CHF or workload of 3 METs or less with dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope.
60% -- Workload 3-5 METs or acute CHF in past year
More than one episode of acute CHF in past year, or workload of 3-5 METs.
30% -- Workload 5-7 METs
Workload of greater than 5 but not greater than 7 METs.
10% -- Workload 7-10 METs
Workload greater than 7 but not greater than 10 METs with continuous medication.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (4 MAPPED)
DC
Irregular heartbeat allows clot formation
DC
Irregular rhythm reduces pump efficiency
DC
Microemboli and reduced cerebral perfusion
DC
Palpitations and stroke fear
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
SECONDARY CONDITIONS
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EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026