Stroke and complications

During the first 6 months, medical records confirming the diagnosis of brain hemorrhage are the key evidence. After that, the evidence that matters most depends on which residuals you have.

For cognitive residuals, neuropsychological testing that documents objective impairment in memory, attention, concentration, executive functions, orientation, judgment, or communication is directly tied to the rating criteria. Records showing how often you are disoriented, how severely your communication is affected, or how your judgment holds up in routine decisions all map to specific rating levels. For neurobehavioral effects — such as irritability, impulsivity, or verbal or physical aggression — records from mental health providers and statements from you, family members, or caregivers describing how often these effects interfere with work or social interaction are relevant.

For subjective symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or fatigue, records showing frequency and severity, and statements describing how those symptoms affect your work and daily activities, support the criteria. For motor, visual spatial, or apraxia-related residuals, examination findings that document the degree of decreased or slowed motor activity are tied to those rating levels.