Is sleep apnea a presumptive condition for VA?

Not for most veterans. It's usually won on a direct basis (3.303) or as secondary to a service-connected condition (3.310), so you need a medical opinion linking it.

Does using a CPAP get a 50% rating?

Under the current rating schedule (38 CFR 4.97, DC 6847), sleep apnea that requires a breathing assistance device such as a CPAP meets the 50% criteria. A proposed rule would change that, but it isn't final.

Can I claim sleep apnea secondary to PTSD?

Yes, if a doctor gives a reasoned opinion that PTSD, its medications, or weight gain caused by it caused or aggravated the sleep apnea. See our page on sleep apnea secondary to PTSD and mental health.

Will the proposed rating change cut my current rating?

A change to the rating schedule alone can't reduce an existing rating unless your condition has actually improved (38 CFR 3.951(a)).

Do I need a private nexus letter?

It isn't required. VA must provide an exam when the McLendon factors are met. A private opinion that addresses causation and aggravation, with reasons, can strengthen a claim, especially if VA's opinion skipped aggravation.

Building a Winnable Sleep Apnea Claim

Sleep apnea VA rating criteria (DC 6847), direct vs secondary theories, CPAP and the 50% level, the proposed rule, evidence checklist, and FAQs.

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🔒 What the rule says
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