Sleep apnea is another condition that has seen major scrutiny by the VA, and in 2025, veterans are bracing for significant changes in how this common disability is rated. Historically, sleep apnea has been one of the most highly rated service-connected conditions, often awarded at 50% or higher if the veteran uses a CPAP machine. But with the VA proposing updates to the rating criteria, many veterans could see their compensation affected going forward.
What Is Sleep Apnea and Why Is It Common Among Veterans?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when throat muscles relax and block the airway. Veterans are at increased risk due to factors like exposure to airborne hazards, PTSD, weight gain after service, and head or neck injuries.
Many veterans suffer from symptoms such as:
Loud snoring
Gasping for air during sleep
Chronic fatigue
Headaches
Poor concentration
The VA has recognized the link between service and sleep apnea in many cases and has rated the condition accordingly—often awarding 50% if a CPAP or similar breathing device is required.
What Changes Are Being Proposed in 2025?
In 2025, the VA is considering a revised rating system for respiratory conditions, including sleep apnea. The major proposed change is that the mere use of a CPAP machine would no longer guarantee a 50% disability rating. Instead, the VA wants to rate sleep apnea based on symptoms and impact on daily life, even with treatment.
This means that if a veteran’s symptoms are well-managed with a CPAP, the rating might be reduced to 0% or 10%, unless there’s evidence of persistent impairment despite treatment.
Another consideration is whether sleep apnea is service-connected directly or secondarily—such as resulting from PTSD or another condition. Proving that connection may become more important than ever.
What Veterans Should Do Right Now
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea but haven’t filed yet, don’t wait. The current rating criteria still apply, but once the new regulations go into effect, they could limit your eligibility or reduce your future compensation.
Here are some steps to take immediately:
File Your Claim ASAP: Claims submitted before new regulations are finalized will be rated under the current system.
Gather Medical Evidence: Include your sleep study results, CPAP prescription, and documentation of ongoing symptoms.
Explore Secondary Service Connection: If you have PTSD, a TBI, or other service-connected issues, speak with a doctor about how they might be contributing to your sleep apnea.
Track Changes from the VA: Keep up with announcements, as the proposed changes could be finalized any time in 2025.
Final Thoughts
Sleep apnea is not just about loud snoring—it affects health, daily functioning, and long-term quality of life. The VA’s proposed changes in 2025 aim to update how disabilities are measured, but they could come at the cost of reduced benefits for veterans already struggling. Taking action early can help ensure you receive the compensation you’ve earned for your service and your health.
