Hypertensive vascular disease (DC 7101)

Body system: Cardiovascular SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.104DBQ: DBQ CARDIO Hypertension

Hypertensive vascular disease is the VA's term for high blood pressure that affects your blood vessels. The VA rates this condition from 10% to 60% based on your actual blood pressure readings - specifically your diastolic pressure (the bottom number) and systolic pressure (the top number). Higher ratings mean your blood pressure is consistently higher and harder to control, which translates to higher monthly compensation.

Rating levels

  • 60% — Your bottom blood pressure number (diastolic pressure) is usually 130 or higher when measured by medical professionals. This represents severely high blood pressure that puts significant strain on your heart and blood vessels, typically requiring multiple medications and frequent medical monitoring.
  • 40% — Your blood pressure readings consistently show a diastolic number (the bottom number when blood pressure is measured) of 120 or higher most of the time. This represents severely high blood pressure that puts significant strain on your heart and blood vessels, requiring ongoing medical management and potentially limiting your daily activities.
  • 20% — To qualify for this rating level, your blood pressure readings must consistently show either a bottom number (diastolic pressure) of 110 or higher, or a top number (systolic pressure) of 200 or higher. The word "predominantly" means that most of your blood pressure measurements over time need to reach these high levels, not just occasional readings.
  • 10% — You qualify for this rating if your blood pressure readings consistently show the bottom number (diastolic pressure) at 100 or higher, or the top number (systolic pressure) at 160 or higher. You also qualify if you previously had consistently high diastolic readings of 100 or more and now need to take blood pressure medication daily to keep it controlled, even if your current readings are lower due to the medication.

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.