# Prostrating attacks: the word the migraine rating turns on

> What prostrating and completely prostrating mean in the DC 8100 criteria, how the 30% and 50% levels differ, and how to document attacks so the record answers the questions the criteria ask.

Canonical: https://aivaclaims.com/conditions/migraine-va-rating/prostrating-attacks

Last updated: 2026-10-27

Updated October 27, 2026 · By AIVA

Every DC 8100 level above 0% requires prostrating attacks. The 30% level requires characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on an average once a month over the last several months, while 50% requires very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability — so both what an attack does to you and what the attacks together do to your work matter.

## [The word the whole scale turns on](#the-word-the-whole-scale-turns-on)

Read the DC 8100 criteria closely and one word does most of the work. The 10% and 30% levels both require characteristic prostrating attacks; the 50% level requires completely prostrating attacks. The schedule states the word without adding a separate definition, so the evidence has to show what the word describes.

In plain terms, a prostrating attack is one that stops you: you have to stop what you are doing and rest until it passes. A headache you can work through, however painful, does not match that description. When you describe your attacks — in a statement, a log, or an exam — describe what an attack actually does, not only that it hurt.

[38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8100 — Migraine (eCFR)](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-4/section-4.124a)

## [What separates 30% from 50%](#what-separates-30-from-50)

Four elements change between the two levels, and a record aimed at the higher level has to speak to each of them:

- Frequency: on an average once a month (30%) versus very frequent (50%)
- Completeness: prostrating (30%) versus completely prostrating (50%)
- Duration: the 50% criterion adds prolonged
- Consequence: only the 50% criterion requires that the attacks be productive of severe economic inadaptability

[38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8100 — Migraine (eCFR)](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-4/section-4.124a)

## [Document the attack, not just the diagnosis](#document-the-attack-not-just-the-diagnosis)

A diagnosis alone does not show frequency or prostration. The record that answers the criteria is built attack by attack: dates, duration, what you had to stop doing, and the effect on work, recorded close to when each attack happened.

Statements from a spouse, family member, or co-worker can add what they observed — that you left work, went to a dark room, or could not drive. Keep those observations factual and specific, in the same way the evidence checklist guide recommends for any firsthand statement.

[VA: Evidence needed for a disability claim](https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/evidence-needed/)

## Attack-log template: the prostrating record

For each attack, record the details that map to the criteria: frequency, whether the attack prostrated you, how long it lasted, and what it cost your day. Print this page and keep it with your log, or copy the fields into a notes app.

- Date and start time of the attack
- How long the attack lasted
- Whether you had to stop what you were doing and lie down or rest
- Whether you were completely unable to function until it passed
- Work missed, work left early, or duties you could not complete
- Symptoms during the attack
- Medication taken and whether it helped
- Who saw the attack and what they observed

## Related help

- [Migraine VA rating hub](https://aivaclaims.com/conditions/migraine-va-rating)
- [The DC 8100 criteria in plain language](https://aivaclaims.com/conditions/migraine-va-rating/criteria)
- [C&P exam preparation](https://aivaclaims.com/guides/c-and-p-exam-preparation)

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This educational series reproduces and explains the linked regulation and VA sources. It is not an individual legal or medical assessment, and it does not predict a rating. For representation or help with your claim, [find VA-accredited assistance](https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/). Check the current VA instructions and your own decision letter before filing.