Yes! You can claim sleep apnea secondary to hypertension if your service-connected hypertension caused (or aggravated) your sleep apnea.
This blog will break down the connection between sleep apnea and hypertension, VA ratings, how to file a VA claim, how to service-connect your condition, and lots more.
Let’s jump in.
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- You can claim sleep apnea secondary to hypertension if your primary service-connected hypertension caused your sleep apnea.
- The VA rates sleep apnea secondary to hypertension at 0%, 30%, 50%, and 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and whether you require a breathing device.
- You can file a VA claim for sleep apnea secondary to hypertension online, by mail, via fax, or in person.
The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Hypertension
Sleep apnea and hypertension are closely linked. For example, long-term hypertension can contribute to sleep apnea by impacting respiratory and cardiovascular health.
A 2022 study found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and hypertension frequently occur together and affect each other in harmful ways.
This includes issues like an overactive nervous system, poor gut health, inflammation, damage to blood vessels, fluid buildup, throat blockages during sleep, and problems with metabolism and energy use at night.
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How the VA Rates Sleep Apnea Secondary to Hypertension
The VA rates sleep apnea secondary to hypertension at 0%, 30%, 50%, and 100% under 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6847 Schedule of Ratings – Sleep Apnea Syndromes (Obstructive, Central, Mixed).
Your VA rating for sleep apnea secondary to hypertension will depend on the severity of your symptoms and whether you require a breathing device.
For example, if you require a CPAP machine, you may qualify for a VA rating of at least 50%.
VA Rating Chart for Sleep Apnea Secondary to Hypertension
| 6847 Sleep Apnea Syndromes (Obstructive, Central, Mixed) | VA Rating |
| Chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention or cor pulmonale, or; requires tracheostomy | 100% |
| Requires use of breathing assistance device such as continuous airway pressure (CPAP) machine | 50% |
| Persistent daytime hypersomnolence | 30% |
| Asymptomatic but with documented sleep disorder breathing | 0% |
Proving Service Connection
To prove sleep apnea secondary to hypertension, you must provide the following information:
- A current medical diagnosis of the secondary VA disability you’re attempting to link (sleep apnea) to the current service-connected disability (hypertension) AND
- A current service-connected primary disability (hypertension) AND
- Medical nexus evidence establishing a connection between the service-connected primary condition (hypertension) AND the current disability you’re trying to connect secondary (sleep apnea)
In addition, the VA requires you to attend a sleep study to receive an accurate sleep apnea diagnosis. A sleep study is critical in finding evidence of irregular breathing, gasping, and other obvious signs of sleep apnea. Don’t miss that appointment!
Filing a Sleep Apnea Secondary to Hypertension VA Claim
To receive a VA rating, you must file a VA claim, which is the first step to receiving the benefits and compensation you rightfully deserve.
The VA offers several methods for filing a claim, including:
If you choose not to file your VA claim online, you must download and complete VA Form 21-526EZ.
See More: 14 VA Secondary Conditions Linked to Hypertension in Veterans
How to Strengthen Your VA Claim
While you aren’t required to submit medical evidence with your VA claim, it’s highly recommended.
If you don’t submit medical evidence, you’ll likely be required to attend a compensation & pension (C&P) exam so the VA can better assess your condition.
4 ways to strengthen your claim include:
- Obtain a nexus letter with high probative value.
- Be thorough with your documentation.
- Provide statements in support of your claim, including personal statements.
- Provide solid medical evidence about your condition.
While nothing can guarantee a service-connection, it’s vital you provide a thorough claim, ensuring you prove to the VA your medical condition was caused or aggravated by your military service.
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(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
Can hypertension cause sleep apnea?
Yes, there is research showing that hypertension can cause sleep apnea. A 2020 study found that the apneic episodes in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) lead to increased blood pressure, further exposing you to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risks.
Can I claim sleep apnea secondary to hypertension?
Yes, it’s possible to claim sleep apnea secondary to hypertension if your service-connected hypertension caused (or aggravated) your sleep apnea. Keep in mind that sleep apnea is one of the most difficult disabilities to service connect. It’s important to ensure you have strong and relevant medical evidence to support your claim.
What is the VA rating for sleep apnea secondary to hypertension?
The VA ratings for sleep apnea secondary to hypertension are 0%, 30%, 50% and 100%, depending on the severity of your symptoms and whether you require a breathing device.
How does the VA rate sleep apnea secondary to hypertension?
The VA rates sleep apnea secondary to hypertension under 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6847 Schedule of Ratings – Sleep Apnea Syndromes (Obstructive, Central, Mixed).
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Kelly Olone
Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse.
