VA C&P Exam for Sinusitis: What to Expect and How to Prepare!

Looking for Expert-Level VA Claim Help?📱Call Us Now! 737-295-2226

In this article, VA disability expert Brian Reese explains what to expect and how to prepare for a VA C&P exam for sinusitis.

After you’ve filed a VA claim for sinusitis, you’ll likely be scheduled for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam by a private company contracted by the VA.

Sinusitis is common among military veterans due to environmental exposures such as dust, allergens, burn pits, toxins, smoke, sandstorms, industrial chemicals, extreme temperature changes, and prolonged time in poorly ventilated environments often encountered during service.

For example, a recent study of 60,000 veterans found that Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) were 29% more likely to report being diagnosed with sinusitis compared to veterans deployed elsewhere during the same period.

According to our data, sinusitis is the #35 most claimed VA disability of the top 50 most common VA claims.

Pro Tip: The VA rates sinusitis under 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Codes (DCs) 6510-6514, from 0% to 50% with breaks at 10% and 30%, depending on the severity of symptoms, including the number of incapacitating or non-incapacitating episodes requiring treatment, the presence of chronic osteomyelitis or repeated surgeries, and whether the condition is detectable only by X-ray.

Summary of Key Points

• C&P Exam Overview for Sinusitis: Veterans who file a claim for sinusitis are typically scheduled for a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to determine the severity of their condition, its connection to military service (or if you’re eligible for presumptive disability benefits), and its overall impact on daily life, including work and social functioning.

• Causes and Prevalence of Sinusitis Among Veterans: Sinusitis is common among veterans due to exposure to environmental hazards during service, such as burn pits, dust, allergens, and industrial chemicals. Studies show that OEF/OIF veterans are 29% more likely to report sinusitis diagnoses compared to other veterans from the same period.

• VA Disability Ratings for Sinusitis: The VA rates sinusitis under Diagnostic Codes 6510-6514 from 0% to 50%, depending on the frequency of incapacitating and non-incapacitating episodes, the presence of chronic conditions like osteomyelitis, and any history of repeated surgeries.

• Tips and Strategies for Your Sinusitis VA C&P Exam: Veterans should gather comprehensive medical records, maintain a symptoms journal, document functional and work-related impacts, and familiarize themselves with the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for sinusitis. Providing detailed and honest accounts during the exam, supported by medical evidence, ensures the VA has the information needed to fairly evaluate the claim.

What to Expect at a C&P Exam for Sinusitis

A C&P exam for sinusitis is designed to assess whether (#1) you have the condition diagnosed, (#2) if there is a “nexus” for service connection (meaning your sinusitis was caused or made worse by your military service or by another service connected disability for secondary service connection or if it’s a presumptive disability based on your qualifying service in a qualifying location and time period), and (#3) the severity of your symptoms in terms of frequency, severity, and duration along with any negative impacts to your work, life, and social functioning.

Here’s what you can expect during a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for sinusitis:

A VA C&P exam for sinusitis involves a detailed evaluation of your condition to determine its severity, connection to your military service, and its impact on your daily life.

Here’s what you can expect:

• 1. Review of Medical History: The examiner will begin by reviewing your medical records related to sinusitis, including prior diagnoses, treatments, and test results. Ensure the VA has access to all relevant documentation before the exam, but bring any additional records, such as imaging reports, doctor’s notes, or prescription history, which support your claim.

• 2. Discussion of Symptoms and Onset: The examiner will ask about the history of your sinusitis, including its onset during or after your military service. They will explore potential contributing factors such as exposure to environmental hazards (dust, burn pits, or allergens) or recurrent infections. Sinusitis is on the VA’s PACT Act Presumptive List. Be prepared to discuss the frequency and duration of your symptoms, including episodes of sinusitis requiring antibiotics or bed rest (incapacitating episodes).

• 3. Description of Current Symptoms: You’ll need to describe your current symptoms, including the frequency, severity, and duration along with any triggers. The examiner may also ask how these symptoms impact your daily activities and quality of life. Common symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, headaches, postnasal drip, purulent nasal discharge, fever, fatigue, and in severe cases, trouble breathing.

• 4. Physical Examination: The examiner will conduct a physical evaluation, which may include the inspection of your nasal passages for obstruction, swelling, or discharge palpation of the sinuses to check for tenderness or pain, and assessment of related symptoms like headaches or postnasal drip.

• 5. Imaging Tests: If necessary, the examiner may order imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans. These tests help identify structural abnormalities (e.g., deviated septum or sinus blockages) and the extent of sinus disease, which may influence your VA disability rating.

• 6. Negative Impacts on Daily Life and Work: The examiner will evaluate how your sinusitis affects your ability to perform daily activities, including work and social engagements. Be specific about limitations caused by symptoms such as difficulty concentrating due to headaches or frequent absences due to severe episodes.

• 7. Completion of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for Sinusitis: The examiner will document their findings in a DBQ specific to sinusitis. This includes the frequency and severity of incapacitating episodes, non-incapacitating episodes with symptoms like pain, discharge, or crusting, and any structural abnormalities or chronic conditions identified during the evaluation. The DBQ will be submitted to the VA to determine your disability rating.

Questions You Might Get Asked During a Sinusitis C&P Exam

Here’s a list of questions from the DBQ for Sinusitis/Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx, and Pharynx that veterans can expect to be asked during their C&P exam:

SECTION I: DIAGNOSIS

• What sinus, nose, throat, larynx, or pharynx condition are you claiming?

• Do you currently have a diagnosis of sinusitis or any other related condition (e.g., rhinitis, deviated septum)?

• When were you diagnosed with sinusitis or other related conditions?

SECTION II: MEDICAL HISTORY

• When did your sinus condition start, and how has it progressed over time?

• Have you experienced any changes in symptoms or severity since the condition began?

• What treatments or medications have you received for your sinus condition, and how effective have they been?

SECTION III: NOSE, THROAT, LARYNX, OR PHARYNX CONDITIONS

Part A – Sinusitis

• Which sinuses are currently affected (maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, sphenoid, or pansinusitis)?

• Do you experience chronic sinusitis detected only by imaging studies?

• How often do you have sinusitis episodes, and are they incapacitating or non-incapacitating?

• Do you have symptoms such as headaches, facial pain, tenderness, purulent discharge, or crusting?

• Have you undergone sinus surgery, and if so, what type and when?

• Have you experienced complications such as chronic osteomyelitis or required repeated sinus-related surgeries?

Part B – Rhinitis

• Do you have significant nasal obstruction on one or both sides?

• Are there any nasal polyps or hypertrophy of the nasal turbinates?

Part C – Larynx and Pharynx Conditions

• Have you experienced hoarseness, vocal cord issues, or any inflammation in your throat or larynx?

• Have you undergone any procedures like laryngectomy or tracheostomy?

• Do you have difficulty swallowing or speaking due to laryngeal or pharyngeal conditions?

Part D – Deviated Nasal Septum

• Is your nasal passage obstructed by a deviated septum, and is it trauma-related?

• Is the obstruction complete on one or both sides?

Part E – Tumors and Neoplasms

• Have you ever been diagnosed with benign or malignant neoplasms related to your sinus or nasal condition?

• Have you undergone treatment for tumors, such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy?

Part F – Other Pertinent Findings

• Do you have scars, disfigurement, or loss of part of the nose related to your sinus condition?

• Are there any other physical findings or complications associated with your condition?

SECTION IV: DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

• Have you had any imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT, MRI) for your sinus condition, and what were the results?

• Have you undergone any endoscopy procedures, and what did they reveal?

• Were there any biopsy or pulmonary function tests performed to evaluate upper airway obstruction?

SECTION V: FUNCTIONAL IMPACT

• How does your sinus condition affect your ability to perform daily tasks, such as standing, walking, or working?

• Can you provide examples of how your condition impacts your work, social life, or physical activities?

SECTION VI: REMARKS

• Is there anything else you would like to share about how your sinus condition affects your life?

• Are there additional details or symptoms you feel are not covered by the previous questions?

Examples of Work, Life, and Functional Impacts of Sinusitis

Sinusitis can significantly impact a veteran’s ability to work, perform daily activities, and maintain overall function.

Below are examples of how sinusitis can negatively affect these areas:

Work Impacts

• Frequent Absences: Chronic sinus infections may require time off work for medical treatment or recovery from incapacitating episodes, affecting attendance and job reliability.

• Reduced Productivity: Symptoms like headaches, facial pain, and fatigue can reduce focus and efficiency in work tasks, especially in roles requiring concentration or physical activity.

• Limitations on Physical Work: Jobs involving heavy lifting, frequent bending, or outdoor work may be difficult due to exacerbated symptoms from environmental exposure.

Life Impacts

• Difficulty with Daily Tasks: Simple activities like cooking, cleaning, or running errands can become challenging when dealing with sinus pain, congestion, or fatigue.

• Social Disruption: Symptoms such as constant nasal discharge, headaches, and fatigue may discourage participation in social activities or gatherings.

• Sleep Disturbances: Sinus issues often interfere with restful sleep, leading to daytime drowsiness and reduced energy for daily life.

Functional Impacts

• Chronic Pain and Discomfort: Frequent facial pain, tenderness, and headaches can create a cycle of discomfort that diminishes overall functionality.

• Breathing Difficulties: Blocked nasal passages may reduce oxygen intake, leading to fatigue and impaired physical performance in daily or recreational activities.

• Impact on Mental Health: Persistent symptoms can lead to frustration, anxiety, or depression, further diminishing the veteran’s ability to cope with their condition.

Tips to Help You Prepare for Your VA C&P Exam for Sinusitis

Preparing for your VA C&P exam for sinusitis is crucial to ensure the examiner fully understands the severity of your symptoms and the negative impacts to your work, life, and social functioning.

Here’s how to make the most of exam day:

1. Gather Medical Records and Supporting Evidence

Collect all relevant medical records, including documentation of sinusitis diagnoses, treatment history, and prescribed medications (e.g., antibiotics, nasal sprays).

• Include imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans, if available, showing evidence of sinus issues.

• Provide records of previous surgeries or procedures related to sinusitis, such as endoscopic sinus surgery.

2. Keep a Symptoms Journal

Maintain a detailed log of your sinusitis symptoms, noting:

• Frequency: Record how often you experience non-incapacitating and incapacitating episodes.

• Severity: Document symptoms like headaches, facial pain, nasal discharge, or difficulty breathing.

• Impact: Describe how symptoms affect your daily life, including your ability to work or sleep.

• Treatment: Note any relief or lack thereof from prescribed treatments.

Be specific, such as: “I had six non-incapacitating episodes of sinusitis this year, each lasting a week, characterized by headaches, tenderness, and nasal discharge.”

3. Document Negative Work and Life Impacts

List examples of how sinusitis affects your daily functioning:

• Work: Explain if symptoms cause frequent absences, reduced productivity, or difficulty concentrating.

• Daily Life: Share examples like struggling with household tasks, avoiding outdoor activities due to triggers, or missing social events.

• Sleep Issues: Highlight any problems with sleep caused by sinus congestion or pain.

4. Understand the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)

Review the sections of the DBQ for Sinusitis that the examiner will complete.

Focus on:

• History and Onset: Be prepared to discuss when your symptoms began and how they’ve progressed.

• Episodes and Symptoms: Know the difference between incapacitating episodes (requiring bed rest and medical treatment) and non-incapacitating episodes.

• Functional Limitations: Be ready to explain how your condition impacts your mobility, concentration, and quality of life.

5. Be Honest and Specific During the Exam

Provide detailed answers about your symptoms and their impact on your life.

• Don’t downplay or exaggerate your condition—examiners are trained to evaluate consistency.

• If you experience flare-ups, describe their frequency, triggers, and severity.

Pro Tip: Upload any supporting documents or evidence to your VA claim before the exam, including photos of swollen or inflamed sinuses, if available. Thorough preparation ensures the examiner and VA Rater have the information needed to fairly evaluate your claim.

VA DBQ for Sinusitis [Download]

The examiner will follow the sections and questions of the electronic DBQ for Sinusitis/Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx, and Pharynx to determine whether you have a sinus condition and its severity of symptoms.

We’ve made a copy available for review and download below:

Want Expert-Level Help with Your VA Disability Claim? WE GOT YOUR SIX!

How does VA Claims Insider help veterans?

We make the confusing and frustrating VA claim process EASY through our 8-step proprietary system and one-on-one coaching; we’re the VA Claim EXPERTS you can trust, and YOU are never alone in this fight against the VA!

You’ll also receive VA disability expert Brian Reese’s SEM Method Blueprint—a proven formula that has helped over 25,000 veterans win their VA disability claims faster:

Strategy + Education + Medical Evidence = VA Rating and Compensation You Deserve FASTER!

Start today and unlock an exceptional level of service you deserve for serving our country:

➡️ You’ll hear from a VA Claim Expert over email within 15 minutes of signing up today.

➡️ You’ll hear from your Veteran Coach team within 24 hours of all inquiries during normal business days/hours.

➡️ Our terms are clear and simple: If we don’t win, you don’t pay. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Click the red button below to start the process of winning your VA claim right now!

Veterans: Are You Ready to WIN, SERVICE-CONNECT, and INCREASE Your VA Rating FASTER? We Can Help!

• VA Claims Insider is the #1 most trusted name in VA disability claims.

• Work directly with a VA claims coach who can help lead you to VA claim victory.

• 25,000+ disabled veterans served in our membership programs since 2016.

• 30% average rating increase for veterans who complete our #1 rated Elite program.

• 4.7/5.0 average rating out of 5,500+ total reviews; over 4,500 5-star reviews.

About the Author