SSA Blue Book · Section 4.00

All Blue Book listings / Cardiovascular Disorders

Cardiovascular Listings: Heart Failure and Heart Disease

Section 4.00 covers disorders of the heart and circulation. The criteria use medical findings and test results together with symptoms, treatment, and the course of the condition.

Conditions covered

The body system includes chronic heart failure, ischemic heart disease such as coronary artery disease, recurrent arrhythmias, some congenital heart conditions, and peripheral artery or venous disease.

Key listings in Section 4.00

  • 4.02 — Chronic heart failure

    Considers specified cardiac findings and ongoing symptoms or functional limitations despite prescribed treatment.

  • 4.04 — Ischemic heart disease

    Addresses coronary artery disease and related ischemic findings under the listing’s specified pathways.

  • 4.05 — Recurrent arrhythmias

    Covers documented recurrent arrhythmias with specified symptoms and treatment history.

  • 4.12 — Peripheral artery disease

    Evaluates qualifying arterial disease using the findings described in the listing.

These are plain-language summaries, not the full regulatory criteria. Review the official Blue Book for the complete requirements and definitions.

Evidence SSA may consider

  • Relevant records may include echocardiograms, ejection-fraction measurements, ECG or rhythm-monitor results, exercise testing when performed, imaging, and hospital records.
  • Treatment notes should show medications, procedures, response, and whether symptoms continue after the condition has stabilized.
  • Descriptions of exertional symptoms, fainting episodes, swelling, recovery time, and restrictions from the treating team help place test findings in context.

If the listing is not met

Not meeting a cardiovascular listing does not decide the claim. SSA may still find that symptoms or treatment effects limit lifting, standing, walking, pace, attendance, or the ability to sustain exertion.

SSA addresses those limits in the RFC and then compares them with past work and other work at Steps 4 and 5. A Grid Rule can direct a result when its vocational criteria fit; otherwise it may be used as a framework.

Related resources

Read the official SSA Blue Book for Section 4.00

This page provides general information, not medical or legal advice. It is not a determination of whether any person qualifies for benefits.