VA Disability Rating for Paralysis of tenth cranial nerve (DC 8210)

Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.124aDBQ: DBQ NEURO Cranial Nerve Conditions

Diagnostic Code 8210 covers paralysis of the tenth cranial nerve (the vagus nerve, also called the pneumogastric nerve), which serves the organs of voice and breathing, the throat, the stomach, and the heart. The VA rates it at 50% for complete paralysis, 30% for incomplete, severe paralysis, and 10% for incomplete, moderate paralysis. The rating schedule notes that the rating depends on the extent of sensory and motor loss to the organs of voice, respiration, pharynx, stomach and heart.

Rating levels

  • 50% — Complete paralysis of the tenth (vagus) cranial nerve: the nerve no longer works, so you have lost the voice, breathing, swallowing, and the nerve supply of the stomach and heart on the affected side. The regulation rates this nerve on the extent of sensory and motor loss to organs of voice, respiration, pharynx, stomach and heart.
  • 30% — Severe incomplete paralysis of the tenth (vagus) cranial nerve: a marked but not total loss of the voice, breathing, swallowing, and the nerve supply of the stomach and heart on the affected side. The regulation rates this nerve on the extent of sensory and motor loss to organs of voice, respiration, pharynx, stomach and heart.
  • 10% — Moderate incomplete paralysis of the tenth (vagus) cranial nerve: a clear but partial loss of the voice, breathing, swallowing, and the nerve supply of the stomach and heart on the affected side. The regulation rates this nerve on the extent of sensory and motor loss to organs of voice, respiration, pharynx, stomach and heart.
  • Note — The rating for this nerve depends on extent of sensory and motor loss to organs of voice, respiration, pharynx, stomach and heart.

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.

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