Diagnostic Code 6522 · 38 CFR §4.97
Allergic rhinitis is chronic inflammation of the nasal passages triggered by allergens such as dust, mold, pollen, or environmental irritants. Veterans commonly develop or worsen rhinitis due to exposure to environmental hazards during service — dust storms, burn pit smoke, vehicle exhaust, and other airborne irritants. Symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip. While it may seem like a minor condition, allergic rhinitis can be a gateway to secondary claims for sleep apnea and sinusitis, and every percentage point counts toward your combined rating.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Diagnosed allergic rhinitis without polyps and without greater than 50% obstruction of the nasal passages on both sides, or complete obstruction on one side. |
| 10% | Allergic rhinitis without polyps, but with greater than 50% obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides or complete obstruction on one side. |
| 30% | Allergic rhinitis with polyps. This is the maximum schedular rating for DC 6522. If nasal polyps are present, the 30% rating is assigned regardless of the degree of obstruction. |
You need: (1) a current diagnosis of allergic rhinitis from a medical provider, (2) evidence linking it to service — either direct exposure to allergens or irritants during service, or secondary to another service-connected condition, and (3) documentation of the severity, specifically whether you have nasal polyps or the degree of nasal obstruction. A CT scan of the sinuses or nasal endoscopy showing polyps or obstruction levels strengthens higher rating claims. Service treatment records showing treatment for nasal or sinus complaints are helpful. If claiming as secondary to burn pit exposure, the PACT Act may provide a presumptive path.
Rhinitis and sinusitis are among the conditions that may qualify for presumptive service connection for veterans who served in Southwest Asia or were exposed to burn pits. Check whether your service location and dates fall within the qualifying criteria.
Yes. Nasal obstruction from rhinitis can contribute to or worsen obstructive sleep apnea. If you have service-connected rhinitis and later develop sleep apnea, you may file a secondary claim linking the two conditions.
The maximum schedular rating is 30%, which requires the presence of nasal polyps. Without polyps, the maximum is 10%, which requires greater than 50% obstruction on both sides or complete obstruction on one side.