Epilepsy — Grand Mal (Generalized Convulsive)

DC 8910Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8910 — Epilepsy, Grand Mal

A seizure disorder causing grand mal (tonic-clonic) seizures — episodes where you lose consciousness and your body stiffens and jerks. The VA rates epilepsy based on how often seizures happen.

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 8910

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8910 — Epilepsy, Grand Mal. 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 average at least one major seizure per month over the last year.

What the VA looks for

12 or more major seizures per year
Monthly or more frequent convulsive episodes
Comprehensive seizure log with medical corroboration

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a seizure diary — frequency is everything for this rating. Write down every seizure, including date, time, duration, and symptoms.
⚠Not having witnesses provide buddy statements — seizures often involve loss of consciousness, so you may not remember them. Family and coworkers can confirm what happened.
⚠Not distinguishing between major seizures (grand mal with loss of consciousness and convulsions) and minor seizures — the rating criteria treat them differently.
⚠Not requesting driving restrictions or work limitation documentation from your neurologist — this supports the severity of your condition.
⚠Missing secondary conditions — epilepsy commonly causes depression, anxiety, memory problems, and medication side effects that may be separately rated.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Seizure Disorders (Epilepsy)

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Epilepsy — Grand Mal (Generalized Convulsive) or rated under the same body system.

Migraine Headaches

DC 8100·Neurological

Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Lower Extremities

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Upper Extremities

DC 8515·Neurological

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

DC 8045·Neurological

Epilepsy — Petit Mal (Absence)

DC 8911·Neurological

Trigeminal Neuralgia

DC 8205·Neurological

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

DC 8515·Neurological

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8910

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You average at least one major seizure per month over the last year.

What the VA looks for

12 or more major seizures per year
Monthly or more frequent convulsive episodes
Comprehensive seizure log with medical corroboration

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a seizure diary — frequency is everything for this rating. Write down every seizure, including date, time, duration, and symptoms.

⚠Not having witnesses provide buddy statements — seizures often involve loss of consciousness, so you may not remember them. Family and coworkers can confirm what happened.

⚠Not distinguishing between major seizures (grand mal with loss of consciousness and convulsions) and minor seizures — the rating criteria treat them differently.

⚠Not requesting driving restrictions or work limitation documentation from your neurologist — this supports the severity of your condition.

⚠Missing secondary conditions — epilepsy commonly causes depression, anxiety, memory problems, and medication side effects that may be separately rated.