Sick Sinus Syndrome

DC 7015Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7015

A group of heart rhythm problems where the sinus node (the heart's natural pacemaker) does not work properly. This can cause the heart to beat too slowly, too fast, or alternate between both. The VA rates sick sinus syndrome based on your heart workload capacity in METs and ejection fraction.

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 7015

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7015. 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 chronic congestive heart failure, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less causing symptoms, or your ejection fraction is less than 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

Chronic congestive heart failure
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Left ventricular ejection fraction less than 30%
Severe exercise limitation
Permanent pacemaker dependence documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a Holter monitor or event recorder to document intermittent rhythm problems — sick sinus syndrome episodes may not appear on a standard EKG taken at one point in time.
⚠Not documenting syncopal (fainting) episodes with dates and circumstances — these episodes demonstrate the severity of the condition and support a higher rating.
⚠Not connecting sick sinus syndrome to cardiac damage from in-service conditions — prior heart infections, chest trauma, or cardiac surgery during service can all damage the sinus node.
⚠If you received a pacemaker for sick sinus syndrome, not claiming the pacemaker implant separately under DC 7018 — you may be entitled to additional ratings for the device itself.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Heart Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Sick Sinus Syndrome

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7015

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have chronic congestive heart failure, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less causing symptoms, or your ejection fraction is less than 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

Chronic congestive heart failure
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Left ventricular ejection fraction less than 30%
Severe exercise limitation
Permanent pacemaker dependence documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a Holter monitor or event recorder to document intermittent rhythm problems — sick sinus syndrome episodes may not appear on a standard EKG taken at one point in time.

⚠Not documenting syncopal (fainting) episodes with dates and circumstances — these episodes demonstrate the severity of the condition and support a higher rating.

⚠Not connecting sick sinus syndrome to cardiac damage from in-service conditions — prior heart infections, chest trauma, or cardiac surgery during service can all damage the sinus node.

⚠If you received a pacemaker for sick sinus syndrome, not claiming the pacemaker implant separately under DC 7018 — you may be entitled to additional ratings for the device itself.