Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

DC 6204Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6204

A common inner ear disorder that causes brief episodes of spinning dizziness triggered by changes in head position. Caused by displaced calcium crystals (otoconia) in the semicircular canals. Can result from head trauma, blast exposure, or inner ear damage during military service. Rated based on the frequency and severity of dizziness and staggering.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6204

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.87, DC 6204. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your BPPV is so severe and constant that you are unable to function independently. You experience near-continuous vertigo with frequent falls and are unable to perform any occupational tasks safely.

What the VA looks for

Near-continuous vertigo documented
Inability to function independently
Frequent falls requiring assistance
Unable to perform occupational tasks safely
Requires assistive devices for ambulation
Failure of all conservative treatments documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting recurrence after treatment — the VA may assume BPPV is resolved after a single repositioning maneuver, but many veterans experience chronic recurrent episodes.
⚠Not obtaining a Dix-Hallpike test during the C&P exam to demonstrate active BPPV — if the exam occurs during a symptom-free period, the examiner may not document objective findings.
⚠Not keeping a dizziness diary documenting the frequency, duration, and triggers of each episode — the rating depends on how often staggering occurs.
⚠Not connecting BPPV to a service-connected head trauma or blast exposure — the VA needs a clear nexus between the in-service event and the inner ear damage.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions

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Condition Rating Guides

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Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6204

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your BPPV is so severe and constant that you are unable to function independently. You experience near-continuous vertigo with frequent falls and are unable to perform any occupational tasks safely.

What the VA looks for

Near-continuous vertigo documented
Inability to function independently
Frequent falls requiring assistance
Unable to perform occupational tasks safely
Requires assistive devices for ambulation
Failure of all conservative treatments documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting recurrence after treatment — the VA may assume BPPV is resolved after a single repositioning maneuver, but many veterans experience chronic recurrent episodes.

⚠Not obtaining a Dix-Hallpike test during the C&P exam to demonstrate active BPPV — if the exam occurs during a symptom-free period, the examiner may not document objective findings.

⚠Not keeping a dizziness diary documenting the frequency, duration, and triggers of each episode — the rating depends on how often staggering occurs.

⚠Not connecting BPPV to a service-connected head trauma or blast exposure — the VA needs a clear nexus between the in-service event and the inner ear damage.