Varicocele VA Rating and How Veterans Qualify for Compensation

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A varicocele VA rating can be confusing for veterans because the condition is real, diagnosable, and often painful—yet it usually does not qualify for VA compensation on its own.

That does not mean veterans are out of options. 

In this blog post, we’ll explain: 

• What a varicocele is (and what causes it)

• How the VA rates varicocele 

• When compensation is possible through secondary conditions 

• How to approach a successful VA claim

Let’s get started…

Summary of Key Points

• A varicocele VA rating is usually 0%.

• Service connection still matters for healthcare and secondary VA claims.

• Compensation often comes from secondary conditions, not the varicocele itself.

• Medical evidence and a strong nexus are critical for service connection. 

What is a Varicocele?

A varicocele is an abnormal enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, specifically the pampiniform plexus, which drains blood from the testicles. 

It is similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. 

Varicoceles most commonly affect the left testicle due to how the left testicular vein drains into the circulatory system. In many cases, the condition develops gradually over time. 

Common Causes

The most common cause of a varicocele is faulty one-way valves in the testicular veins. When these valves fail, blood pools instead of flowing normally, causing the veins to enlarge. 

Known causes and contributing factors include: 

• Congenital vein valve dysfunction 

• Increased abdominal pressure 

• Prolonged standing or heavy lifting 

• Physical strain 

• Prior groin or abdominal trauma (less common) 

Symptoms

Some veterans have no symptoms at all. Others may experience: 

• Dull or aching testicular pain 

• Heaviness in the scrotum 

• Pain that worsens with standing or physical activity 

• Visible or palpable enlarged veins 

• Testicular atrophy (shrinkage) 

• Fertility issues or abnormal sperm parameters 

Is Varicocele a VA Disability?

A varicocele can be service-connected as a VA disability if it began during service, was caused by service, or was aggravated by service. 

However, service connection does not automatically mean compensation. 

Varicocele VA Rating Explained

Here’s the key point veterans need to understand: 

A varicocele is typically assigned a 0% VA rating. 

 Varicocele is listed in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities under 38 CFR § 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7543 (Varicocele/Hydrocele), which authorizes only a noncompensable (0%) rating. 

A 0% VA rating means: 

• The condition is service-connected 

• VA healthcare and secondary claims are preserved 

• Monthly compensation is not paid unless a separate compensable condition or qualifying special benefit applies 

Related: Benefits of a 0% VA Rating

How Veterans Actually Get Compensation for Varicocele

While the varicocele itself is typically non-compensable, secondary conditions caused by it may be compensable. These secondary conditions are where many veterans succeed. 

Common Secondary Conditions Linked to Varicocele

• Chronic testicular pain (orchialgia) 

• Testicular atrophy 

• Infertility or impaired reproductive function 

• Erectile dysfunction (in some cases) 

• Hormonal issues, such as low testosterone (when medically linked) 

These conditions can be claimed as secondary to varicocele if medical evidence supports the connection. 

VA Ratings for Common Secondary Conditions

Examples include: 

Testicular atrophy 

• One testicle: 0% 

• Both testicles: 20% 

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

• Usually rated 0%, but may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) for loss of use of a creative organ 

Chronic pain conditions 

• Rated based on functional impairment and medical evidence 

How to Prove Service Connection for Varicocele

To establish primary service connection, veterans generally need: 

1. A current medical diagnosis of varicocele 

2. Evidence of an in-service event, injury, or aggravation 

3. A medical nexus linking the varicocele to service 

Pro Tip: If claiming VA secondary conditions to varicocele, a nexus (e.g., via a nexus letter) must connect the secondary condition to the service-connected varicocele.

C&P Exam for Varicocele

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam may include: 

• Review of medical history 

• Physical examination 

• Ultrasound reports or imaging 

• Evaluation of pain, atrophy, or functional impairment 

Veterans should clearly explain: 

• Frequency of symptoms 

• Severity of pain or dysfunction 

• Impact on work, daily life, and relationships 

Final Thoughts

A varicocele may not seem compensable at first glance, but many veterans qualify for VA disability benefits through secondary conditions caused by the varicocele. 

If your symptoms extend beyond the enlarged veins themselves—such as chronic pain, testicular damage, or sexual dysfunction—you may be entitled to more than a non-compensable rating. 

Understanding how the VA evaluates varicocele claims is the first step toward protecting your benefits and pursuing the compensation you’ve earned. 

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FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions

Is varicocele a VA disability?

Yes. A varicocele can be service-connected as a VA disability if it began during or was aggravated by military service, but it is typically rated at 0%. 

What is the VA rating for varicocele?

 Varicocele is listed in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities under 38 CFR § 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7543 (Varicocele/Hydrocele), which authorizes only a noncompensable (0%) rating. 

Can I get VA compensation for varicocele-related pain?

Possibly. Veterans may qualify for compensation if the varicocele causes secondary conditions such as chronic testicular pain, testicular atrophy, or erectile dysfunction. 

Do I need a nexus letter for a VA claim for varicocele?

Often, yes. A medical nexus letter can help link the varicocele or related secondary conditions to military service, especially when symptoms developed after discharge.

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