Eyes: Understanding Claims and Disability Ratings
Vision and ocular health are critical to daily life, and service-related injuries or conditions affecting the eyes can significantly impact a veteranโs quality of life. Eye conditions can stem from trauma, diseases, or exposure to harmful substances during service. The VA compensates veterans for visual impairments and other ocular conditions based on the severity of symptoms, functional limitations, and the degree of vision loss. Evaluations consider both central visual acuity and peripheral vision, as well as associated symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, or disfigurement. Accurate medical evidence, including visual field tests and ophthalmologist reports, is crucial for proper assessment and compensation.

VASRD Codes for Eye Conditions (Alphabetical by Nomenclature)
Code 6028: Aphakia
- Description: Absence of the eye lens, typically post-surgery.
- Rating: Evaluated based on visual acuity and function.
Code 6027: Cataracts
- Description: Clouding of the eye lens, impairing vision.
- Rating: Based on visual impairment severity.
Code 7829: Chloracne
- Description: Acne eruptions caused by exposure to dioxins, typically related to chemical exposure.
- Rating: Determined by severity and functional impairment.
Code 6018: Chronic Conjunctivitis
- Description: Persistent inflammation of the conjunctiva, often causing discomfort and redness.
- Rating: Based on symptoms and impact on function.
Code 7828: Acne
- Description: Pus-filled, raised skin bumps that can occur anywhere on the body.
- Rating: Rated on size, scarring, and impact.
Code 6020: Ectropion
- Description: Outward turning of the eyelid, leading to irritation and exposure.
- Rating: Evaluated based on symptoms and impact.
Code 6021: Entropion
- Description: Inward turning of the eyelid, causing discomfort and potential damage to the eye surface.
- Rating: Based on severity and functional impairment.
Code 6025: Epiphora
- Description: Excessive tearing due to blocked tear ducts.
- Rating: Evaluated by severity and functional impact.
Code 6007: Intraocular Hemorrhage
- Description: Bleeding within the eye, causing visual disturbances.
- Rating: Evaluated based on loss of vision or other functional impairments.
Code 6003: Iritis
- Description: Inflammation of the iris, resulting in pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
- Rating: Based on episodes and impact on vision.
Code 6001: Keratopathy
- Description: A condition where the cornea is affected, leading to vision loss or corneal scarring.
- Rating: Based on visual acuity or corneal damage.
Code 6022: Lagophthalmos
- Description: Inability to fully close the eyelid, leading to exposure-related damage.
- Rating: Determined by severity and symptoms.
Code 6004: Cyclitis
- Description: Inflammation of the ciliary body, leading to vision problems and discomfort.
- Rating: Based on visual impairment.
Code 6005: Choroiditis
- Description: Inflammation of the choroid, affecting vision and potentially causing retinal damage.
- Rating: Determined by visual field loss or other vision impairments.
Code 6024: Loss of Eyelashes
- Description: Complete loss of eyelashes, which may cause exposure-related issues.
- Rating: Based on impact on function.
Code 6016: Nystagmus
- Description: Uncontrollable eye movements causing blurred or unstable vision.
- Rating: Determined by visual function.
Code 6012: Glaucoma
- Description: Increased intraocular pressure causing optic nerve damage and vision loss.
- Rating: Based on visual field contraction or acuity.
Code 6002: Scleritis
- Description: Painful inflammation of the sclera, often linked to autoimmune diseases.
- Rating: Evaluated by visual impairment and related symptoms.
Code 6023: Corneal Transplant
- Description: Replacement of the cornea due to damage or disease.
- Rating: Based on postoperative residuals.
Code 6010: Tuberculosis of the Eye
- Description: A rare complication of tuberculosis affecting ocular structures.
- Rating: Evaluated by impairment severity.
Code 6000: Uveitis
- Description: Inflammation of the uvea, causing redness, pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
- Rating: Based on visual impairment or incapacitating episodes.
Code 6011: Retinal Scars
- Description: Scarring on the retina, which may impair vision.
- Rating: Based on visual impairment or field loss.
Code 6008: Detachment of Retina
- Description: A serious condition where the retina separates from supportive tissues, leading to vision loss.
- Rating: Based on visual impairment severity.
Code 6019: Ptosis
- Description: Drooping of the eyelid, potentially obstructing vision.
- Rating: Determined by degree of vision obstruction.
Code 6006: Retinitis
- Description: Inflammation of the retina, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness.
- Rating: Based on visual acuity or field loss.
Code 6026: Optic Neuropathy
- Description: Damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or impairment.
- Rating: Determined by visual field and acuity loss.
Code 6009: Unhealed Eye Injury
- Description: Ongoing damage or incomplete healing from eye trauma.
- Rating: Determined by visual acuity, field loss, or other residual symptoms.
Code 6017: Trachomatous Conjunctivitis
- Description: Chronic conjunctivitis caused byย Chlamydia trachomatis, potentially causing scarring.
- Rating: Evaluated by visual impairment severity.
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