Chronic Miliaria / Heat Rash

DC 7806Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7806

A chronic skin condition where sweat glands become blocked, causing itchy, painful bumps and rashes, especially in hot or humid environments. Common among veterans who served in tropical or desert climates. The VA rates this based on how much of your body is affected, what treatment you need, and how it limits your ability to work in warm environments.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7806

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7806. 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 chronic miliaria affects more than 40% of your body or exposed areas, or you need constant or near-constant systemic therapy, or it severely limits your occupational capacity.

What the VA looks for

More than 40% body surface area affected
Constant or near-constant systemic therapy
Severe occupational impairment documented
Inability to tolerate any heat exposure
Secondary skin infections from chronic miliaria

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the chronic nature — occasional heat rash is common, but chronic miliaria that recurs every time you are in warm environments is a different condition. Document every episode.
⚠Not connecting to military service — document your service in hot/humid environments (Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Southeast Asia, southern US bases during summer training).
⚠Failing to document occupational impact — if heat triggers your rash and you cannot work in warm environments, get a statement from your doctor about work restrictions.
⚠Not photographing during flare-ups — miliaria may not be visible during a cool-weather exam. Take photos during every active episode and bring them to your C&P exam.
⚠Not claiming secondary infections — blocked sweat glands can lead to bacterial infections (folliculitis, cellulitis). Each infection should be documented.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Chronic Miliaria / Heat Rash

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7806

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your chronic miliaria affects more than 40% of your body or exposed areas, or you need constant or near-constant systemic therapy, or it severely limits your occupational capacity.

What the VA looks for

More than 40% body surface area affected
Constant or near-constant systemic therapy
Severe occupational impairment documented
Inability to tolerate any heat exposure
Secondary skin infections from chronic miliaria

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the chronic nature — occasional heat rash is common, but chronic miliaria that recurs every time you are in warm environments is a different condition. Document every episode.

⚠Not connecting to military service — document your service in hot/humid environments (Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Southeast Asia, southern US bases during summer training).

⚠Failing to document occupational impact — if heat triggers your rash and you cannot work in warm environments, get a statement from your doctor about work restrictions.

⚠Not photographing during flare-ups — miliaria may not be visible during a cool-weather exam. Take photos during every active episode and bring them to your C&P exam.

⚠Not claiming secondary infections — blocked sweat glands can lead to bacterial infections (folliculitis, cellulitis). Each infection should be documented.