EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Hyperthyroidism / Graves' Disease
DC 7900 | 38 CFR § 4.119, DC 7900 |
Hyperthyroidism / Graves' Disease is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 7900 of 38 CFR § 4.119, DC 7900 across 4 severity tiers (100% -- Severe systemic involvement / 60% -- Significant systemic involvement / 30% -- Moderate symptoms requiring continuous medication / 10% -- Mild symptoms or medication-controlled). 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 Atrial Fibrillation or Heart Failure under 38 C.F.R. § 3.310.
OVERVIEW
Overactive thyroid gland producing excess thyroid hormone. Graves' disease is the most common cause, an autoimmune disorder. Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, and heat intolerance.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
100% -- Severe systemic involvement
Marked involvement of multiple body systems requiring intensive management.
60% -- Significant systemic involvement
Significant complications requiring multiple medications and activity restriction.
30% -- Moderate symptoms requiring continuous medication
Moderate symptoms controlled with continuous medication.
10% -- Mild symptoms or medication-controlled
Mild symptoms or condition controlled with medication alone.
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 (8 MAPPED)
DC
Excess thyroid hormone affects heart rhythm
DC
Prolonged tachycardia weakens heart
DC
Excess thyroid increases bone resorption
DC
Excess thyroid hormone causes anxiety symptoms
DC
Autoimmune eye disease in Graves disease
DC
Excess thyroid hormone disrupts sleep
DC
Increased metabolism raises body temperature
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