Asthma is rated primarily on objective pulmonary function test results (FEV-1 and the FEV-1/FVC ratio), with medication requirements and attack frequency also able to independently qualify for each tier.
The VA rates based on whichever single criterion (breathing test result, or medication/treatment level) is met, you don't need to meet all of them at a given tier, only one. If you weren't having an attack during your C&P exam, make sure your medical record documents your history of attacks and typical severity, a single good-day test result can understate a fluctuating condition.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | FEV-1 less than 40% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC less than 40%, or more than 1 attack per week with episodes of respiratory failure, or requires daily use of high-dose systemic corticosteroids or immuno-suppressive medications |
| 60% | FEV-1 of 40–55% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC of 40–55%, or at least monthly physician visits for required care of exacerbations, or intermittent (at least 3 times per year) courses of systemic corticosteroids |
| 30% | FEV-1 of 56–70% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC of 56–70%, or daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy, or inhalational anti-inflammatory medication |
| 10% | FEV-1 of 71–80% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC of 71–80%, or intermittent inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy |