VA Disability Rating for Chronic Laryngitis (DC 6516)
Diagnostic Code 6516 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
Chronic laryngitis is persistent inflammation of the larynx (voice box) lasting longer than three weeks. It causes hoarseness, voice changes, throat discomfort, dry cough, and the constant need to clear the throat. Veterans may develop chronic laryngitis from prolonged voice strain (drill instructors, communications personnel), inhalation injuries from burn pits or chemical exposures, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or repeated upper respiratory infections during service.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Hoarseness with thickening or nodules of the vocal cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or pre-malignant changes on biopsy. |
| 10% | Hoarseness with inflammation of the vocal cords or mucous membrane. |
Evidence Needed
- Laryngoscopy results showing vocal cord inflammation, nodules, polyps, or thickening
- ENT evaluation documenting chronic laryngitis diagnosis
- Service records showing voice-intensive duties or inhalation exposures
- Treatment records documenting the chronicity of the condition
- Biopsy results if polyps or suspicious lesions were found
C&P Exam Tips
- Get a laryngoscopy before filing — the examiner needs to see the vocal cord findings to assign a rating
- Describe your military occupation and how it affected your voice: drill sergeant, radio operator, instructor
- If your laryngitis is related to burn pit exposure, include deployment records and exposure documentation
- Report all voice symptoms: hoarseness, voice fatigue, inability to project, changes in pitch
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with laryngoscopy results, ENT records, and evidence connecting the condition to service duties or exposures.
Common Mistakes
Filing without a laryngoscopy The rating criteria specifically reference vocal cord findings. Without a laryngoscopy, the VA cannot determine the appropriate rating. Not connecting to military occupational duties If your MOS required extensive voice use, document this connection. Drill instructors and similar roles are at high risk. Ignoring GERD as a contributing factor If acid reflux is causing or worsening your laryngitis, claim GERD separately as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can drill instructors claim chronic laryngitis?
Yes. The vocal strain from being a drill instructor is a well-recognized cause of chronic laryngitis and vocal cord damage.
What is the difference between 10 and 30 percent?
A 10 percent rating requires hoarseness with vocal cord inflammation. A 30 percent rating requires hoarseness plus structural changes like nodules, polyps, or thickening of the cords.
Can burn pit exposure cause chronic laryngitis?
Yes. Inhaling smoke and toxic fumes from burn pits can cause chronic irritation and inflammation of the larynx.