Carotid Artery Stenosis

DC 7114Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7114

Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain. This condition increases the risk of stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). The VA rates carotid artery stenosis under the arterial disease criteria based on the degree of blockage and resulting symptoms.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7114

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7114. 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

You have had a stroke due to carotid stenosis with significant residual neurological deficits, or you have bilateral severe stenosis requiring ongoing intensive treatment.

What the VA looks for

Stroke documented with neurological residuals
Bilateral severe carotid stenosis
Brain imaging showing ischemic changes
Residual cognitive or physical deficits
Surgical intervention records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular carotid duplex ultrasound or CT angiography to document the percentage of stenosis — the exact degree of blockage determines the severity rating.
⚠Not separately claiming stroke or TIA residuals — neurological damage from a stroke caused by carotid stenosis can be rated under the neurological section for additional compensation.
⚠Not documenting cognitive changes such as memory loss, confusion, or difficulty concentrating after TIA episodes — these symptoms may support additional neurological or mental health claims.
⚠Not connecting carotid stenosis to in-service risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol — secondary service connection through these conditions is common.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Carotid Artery Stenosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7114

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have had a stroke due to carotid stenosis with significant residual neurological deficits, or you have bilateral severe stenosis requiring ongoing intensive treatment.

What the VA looks for

Stroke documented with neurological residuals
Bilateral severe carotid stenosis
Brain imaging showing ischemic changes
Residual cognitive or physical deficits
Surgical intervention records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular carotid duplex ultrasound or CT angiography to document the percentage of stenosis — the exact degree of blockage determines the severity rating.

⚠Not separately claiming stroke or TIA residuals — neurological damage from a stroke caused by carotid stenosis can be rated under the neurological section for additional compensation.

⚠Not documenting cognitive changes such as memory loss, confusion, or difficulty concentrating after TIA episodes — these symptoms may support additional neurological or mental health claims.

⚠Not connecting carotid stenosis to in-service risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol — secondary service connection through these conditions is common.