CLAIM RECON INTEL

DC 6205 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.87 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.6

OVERVIEW

Meniere disease is an inner ear disorder causing vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fullness. It is rated under DC 6205 based on the frequency of vertigo attacks and hearing impairment. Common in veterans with blast exposure, acoustic trauma, or head injuries. The rating combines vertigo and hearing loss components, though hearing loss and tinnitus can also be rated separately.

RATING CRITERIA (3 LEVELS)

KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER

-Audiogram showing hearing loss pattern consistent with Meniere disease

-Vestibular function testing (ENG/VNG, caloric testing)

-ENT specialist diagnosis of Meniere disease

-Service records showing acoustic trauma, blast exposure, or head injury

-Vertigo attack log: frequency, duration, severity, associated symptoms

SECONDARY CONDITIONS (3 MAPPED)

C&P EXAM TIPS (4)

1.Keep a detailed log of every vertigo attack: date, duration, severity, what you were doing, and whether you fell or had to sit/lie down.

2.The rating is based on FREQUENCY of attacks. Weekly attacks = 100%. Monthly = 60%. Less than monthly = 30%.

3.Get both an audiogram and vestibular function testing to document the full scope of the condition.

4.If you have tinnitus, it may be rated separately at 10% in addition to the Meniere rating.

DOLLAR IMPACT

Meniere disease at 60% (monthly attacks) pays $1,432.71/mo. At 100% (weekly attacks), $3,938.58/mo. One of the higher-value individual condition ratings available.