Sleep apnea is when you stop breathing repeatedly during sleep, which can be caused by blocked airways (obstructive), brain signals not working right (central), or both (mixed). The VA rates sleep apnea from 0% to 100% based on how severe your symptoms are and what treatment you need. Most veterans with sleep apnea get rated at 50% because they need a CPAP machine, while 100% is reserved for the most severe cases requiring a tracheostomy (breathing tube in your throat) or causing heart failure.
Rating levels
100% — You qualify at this level if your sleep apnea has caused chronic respiratory failure where your body can't get rid of carbon dioxide properly, or if it has led to cor pulmonale (heart problems caused by lung disease). You also qualify if you need a tracheostomy (a surgical opening in your neck to help you breathe).
50% — Your diaphragm (the main muscle that helps you breathe) is either completely paralyzed or severely weakened to the point where you cannot breathe properly on your own. You must use a breathing assistance machine like a CPAP device (continuous positive airway pressure machine) all the time to help keep your airways open and support your breathing.
30% — You feel excessively sleepy during the day on a regular, ongoing basis that doesn't go away. This persistent daytime sleepiness (hypersomnolence) means you have trouble staying awake or alert during normal daytime hours, even after what should be a full night's sleep, and it significantly impacts your daily activities.
0% — You have been diagnosed with sleep apnea through a sleep study or other medical testing, but you don't experience any noticeable symptoms from it. Even though the medical tests show you have breathing problems while sleeping (documented sleep disorder breathing), you don't have symptoms like daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or need to use a CPAP machine.
Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.