What happens during a C&P exam for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)?

Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms. Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.

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Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

Q: What are the VA rating percentages for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)?

Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) (DC 6025) is rated at 10%, 20%, 30% under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025. Dry eye requiring the use of artificial tears. Rated based on visual impairment due to the condition, but a minimum 10% rating is assignable under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye when the condition requires continuous treatment.

Q: What rates 10% for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025?

Under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025 (DC 6025), a 10% rating for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) requires: Dry eye requiring the use of artificial tears. Rated based on visual impairment due to the condition, but a minimum 10% rating is assignable under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye when the condition requires continuous treatment.

Q: What rates 20% for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025?

Under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025 (DC 6025), a 20% rating for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) requires: Rated based on visual impairment or disfigurement when symptoms are more significant. May include corrected visual acuity reduction or visual field defects attributable to the condition.

Q: What rates 30% for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025?

Under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025 (DC 6025), a 30% rating for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) requires: Based on more significant visual impairment (reduced visual acuity or visual field loss) attributable to the dry eye condition, per the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye.

Q: What evidence do I need for a Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) VA claim?

Key evidence for a Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) claim includes: Service treatment records; Current medical diagnosis and treatment records; Buddy/lay statements; Prescription history; Employment impact documentation. All evidence should document both the condition and its impact on daily functioning.

DC 602538 C.F.R. § 4.79

Diagnostic Code

DC 6025

38 C.F.R. § 4.79

Rating Range

10–30%

3 severity tiers

Source

Referenced

38 C.F.R. Part 4

Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 6025 of 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025 across 3 severity tiers (10% / 20% / 30%). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303.

Educational tool only. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.

Overview

Chronic condition of inadequate tear production or excessive tear evaporation, causing eye discomfort, visual disturbance, and potential corneal damage. Very common in veterans due to environmental exposures (desert dust, burn pits, wind) and LASIK surgery during service.

Rating Criteria

10%

Dry eye requiring the use of artificial tears. Rated based on visual impairment due to the condition, but a minimum 10% rating is assignable under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye when the condition requires continuous treatment.

20%

Rated based on visual impairment or disfigurement when symptoms are more significant. May include corrected visual acuity reduction or visual field defects attributable to the condition.

30%

Based on more significant visual impairment (reduced visual acuity or visual field loss) attributable to the dry eye condition, per the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye.

03Key Evidence

—Service treatment records

—Current medical diagnosis and treatment records

—Buddy/lay statements

—Prescription history

—Employment impact documentation

—Any relevant diagnostic testing

04C&P Exam Tips

1Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.

2Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.

3Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.

4Mention all medications and their side effects.

5Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.

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Sources & Editorial

Rating criteria reference 38 C.F.R. Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities). This entry has not yet undergone editorial review against the live regulation text — consult the authoritative source directly before relying on the criteria shown.

View 38 C.F.R. Part 4 on eCFR →Editorial Standards →Suggest a correction →

EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026

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