Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a prevalent condition among veterans receiving eye care services. It is commonly associated with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The connection may stem from the underlying disease physiology, or the medications used to treat psychiatric conditions. Research suggests that dry eye syndrome is not only a standalone issue but also linked to chronic pain conditions, making it a complex and often overlooked disability.
How the VA Rates Dry Eyes
The VA rating for dry eye syndrome is 10%, 20%, 40% or 60%, depending on how much the condition affects a veteran’s vision and daily life and the frequency of required treatment. The VA can rate dry eye syndrome under diagnostic code DC 6025 or the general rating formula for diseases of the eye.
Is There a Bilateral Dry Eye Syndrome VA Rating?
Veterans with bilateral dry eye syndrome (both eyes affected) may receive a higher combined rating, depending on the severity and impact of the condition.
Under Diagnostic Code 6025 – Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.), dry eye syndrome can be assigned a 20% rating for bilateral tear production disorder. A 10% rating is assigned to a unilateral tear production disorder (affecting only one eye).
Dry Eye Syndrome May Also Be Evaluated According to the Rating Chart for Eye Conditions
- 60% rating for documented incapacitating episodes requiring 7 or more treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months
- 40% rating for documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 5 but less than 7 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months
- 20% rating for documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 3 but less than 5 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months
- 10% rating for documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 1 but less than 3 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months
Note: For the purposes of evaluation under 38 CFR 4.79, an incapacitating episode is an eye condition severe enough to require a clinic visit to a provider specifically for treatment purposes.
How to Service Connect Dry Eye Syndrome
To establish direct service connection and obtain a VA disability rating for dry eyes, veterans must provide:
- A current diagnosis from a medical professional.
- Evidence of service connection, such as medical records or documentation showing symptoms began during or after service.
- A nexus letter from a medical provider linking the condition to service.
Service connection for dry eye syndrome may be granted if the condition was directly caused by or worsened during military service, but also if it develops secondary to an existing service-connected condition.
Exception: Conditions resulting from elective procedures, such as LASIK or other laser eye surgeries, do not qualify for service connection unless there are unusual complications, or an additional disability directly linked to the procedure. Since dry eye syndrome is a common side effect of laser eye surgery, it does not qualify if it is solely attributed to an elective procedure.
Is Dry Eye Syndrome a Presumptive Condition?
Dry eye syndrome is not a presumptive condition under VA regulations. However, veterans can still receive benefits by establishing direct or secondary service connection. If dry eye syndrome resulted from medications, mental health conditions, or other service-connected disabilities, it may qualify for compensation.
Dry Eye Syndrome as a Secondary Condition
For secondary service connection, veterans must demonstrate that dry eye syndrome was caused or aggravated by another service-connected condition, such as PTSD, TBI, or autoimmune diseases. Dry eye syndrome can be secondary to many conditions, including:
- PTSD and Depression – Medications used to treat these conditions can reduce tear production.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – TBI can cause neurological issues that affect the eyes.
- Autoimmune Disorders – Conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis are linked to DES.
- Other Eye Conditions – Cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, and corneal damage can lead to dry eye.
Case Example
In VA case docket 22014896, a veteran successfully obtained a service connection for dry eye syndrome by proving:
- The veteran had a long history of hyperthyroidism treatment and received a service connected rating.
- Medical literature supports an association between hyperthyroidism and dry eye syndrome.
- Medical reports and doctor’s statements provided a clear link between hyperthyroidism and the onset of dry eye syndrome.
The Board of Veterans’ Appeals granted a secondary service connection, illustrating the importance of medical documentation and expert testimony in VA claims.
Did the VA Deny or Underrate You?
If you believe your rating is too low or your claim has been denied, you have several appeal options:
- Supplemental Claim – Submit new and relevant evidence to prompt the VA to re-evaluate your case.
- Higher-Level Review – Request a senior reviewer to reassess your claim without submitting new evidence.
- Board of Veterans’ Appeals – Appeal directly to the Board for complex cases, with opportunities to provide additional evidence or request a hearing.
Winning a VA disability claim can be difficult, especially if your case involves complexities or requires an appeal. Working with a VA-accredited attorney can be invaluable when seeking a rating increase, applying for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), or disputing a denied claim.
How We Can Assist
For over three decades, Hill & Ponton has been dedicated to helping disabled veterans nationwide secure the benefits they rightfully deserve. If your claim has been denied or you need a rating increase, reach out to us for a free case evaluation. Let our expertise work for you!
Content Reviewed by
Attorney Melanie Williams
Attorney Melanie Williams, a dedicated advocate for underprivileged populations, brings her passion for justice and extensive legal experience to Hill & Ponton, where she focuses on veterans’ disability law.
