Vestibular Migraine

DC 6205Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6205

A type of migraine that causes vertigo, dizziness, and balance problems along with or instead of headache. Common in veterans with blast exposure or traumatic brain injury. Rated under the vestibular disorder criteria.

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 6205

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.87, DC 6205. 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 vestibular migraine causes near-constant vertigo with severe hearing loss. You are unable to function independently due to the frequency and severity of episodes.

What the VA looks for

Near-constant vertigo episodes
Severe hearing loss documented on audiogram
Unable to function independently
Total occupational disability
Vestibular testing showing severe dysfunction
Failure of all treatment options documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a detailed migraine/vertigo diary — the VA rating depends on episode frequency. Document every episode with date, duration, severity, and triggers.
⚠Getting diagnosed only with migraines (DC 8100) when you also have vestibular symptoms — vestibular migraine rated under DC 6205 can yield a higher rating than standard migraines, especially with hearing involvement.
⚠Not getting vestibular function testing (VNG/ENG, rotary chair, VEMP) — objective vestibular testing helps distinguish vestibular migraine from other causes and supports a higher rating.
⚠Not connecting vestibular migraine to TBI or blast exposure — these are the most common military causes, and a nexus opinion from a neurologist is critical.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6205

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your vestibular migraine causes near-constant vertigo with severe hearing loss. You are unable to function independently due to the frequency and severity of episodes.

What the VA looks for

Near-constant vertigo episodes
Severe hearing loss documented on audiogram
Unable to function independently
Total occupational disability
Vestibular testing showing severe dysfunction
Failure of all treatment options documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a detailed migraine/vertigo diary — the VA rating depends on episode frequency. Document every episode with date, duration, severity, and triggers.

⚠Getting diagnosed only with migraines (DC 8100) when you also have vestibular symptoms — vestibular migraine rated under DC 6205 can yield a higher rating than standard migraines, especially with hearing involvement.

⚠Not getting vestibular function testing (VNG/ENG, rotary chair, VEMP) — objective vestibular testing helps distinguish vestibular migraine from other causes and supports a higher rating.

⚠Not connecting vestibular migraine to TBI or blast exposure — these are the most common military causes, and a nexus opinion from a neurologist is critical.