C&P Exam Guide
Migraines C&P Exam
The examiner will assess frequency, severity, and duration of migraines, with particular focus on prostrating attacks that force you to stop all activity.
DBQ: Headaches (including Migraines) DBQ
Exam type: In-person or Telehealth
Typical duration: 15-30 minutes
What the Examiner Looks For
Frequency of prostrating attacks per month, duration of attacks, economic impact (missed work), and whether attacks are truly prostrating.
Related Diagnostic Codes
DC 8100
Migraine
General Tips for Every C&P Exam
📝Be honest — do not exaggerate or minimize.
📝Describe your WORST days, not your best.
📝Focus on how the condition impacts your daily life and ability to work.
📝Keep a symptom journal or diary before your exam.
📝Review the DBQ for your condition beforehand.
📝Arrive early and bring all relevant records.
📝You can bring a support person (spouse, friend).
📝The exam is for evaluation, not treatment — do not expect prescriptions.
📝The examiner is not your doctor — they report findings to the VA.
📝If you disagree with the exam results, you can request a new exam.
✅ DO
⚠️ Critical tip
Use the word prostrating — this is the key term. A prostrating attack means you MUST lie down and cannot function.
Keep a migraine diary documenting each attack: date, duration, severity, symptoms, and what you had to stop doing
Describe the economic impact — missed work days, lost productivity
Mention associated symptoms: nausea, vomiting, light/sound sensitivity, aura
⚠️ Critical tip
Do NOT discuss how medication helps — VA rates migraines on severity WITHOUT considering medication effectiveness
❌ DON'T
⚠️ Critical tip
Don't say your medication controls your migraines — this can lower your rating
Don't downplay frequency or severity
📋 BRING
Migraine diary/log
Records of ER visits or urgent care for migraines
Documentation of missed work
🔍 EXPECT
Questions about frequency of prostrating attacks
Questions about duration and severity
Questions about impact on employment
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal or medical advice. Every veteran's situation is unique. Consider consulting with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or VA-accredited attorney for personalized guidance.