Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a relatively common service-connected disability, with hundreds of thousands of veterans receiving Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits for this condition. The symptoms of IBS can impact daily life in a variety of ways, from physical pain and intestinal issues to the interruption of social activities and day-to-day tasks.

If you have been diagnosed with IBS and believe you are entitled to VA disability benefits for this condition, contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin. We can help you fight a denial or pursue a higher rating that more accurately reflects the impact IBS has on your life. We offer free consultations so you can discuss your case risk-free.

VA Ratings and Compensation for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The VA rates IBS under diagnostic code 7319, with ratings that range from 0% to 30%. As with every service-connected condition that the VA rates, the percentages are based on the severity of the symptoms and the impact they have on daily life.

For IBS, the VA provides disability ratings as follows:

10% Rating

Abdominal pain associated with bowel movements at least one time in the last three months, as well as at least two of the following symptoms:

  • Change in frequency of bowel movements
  • Change in the form of stool
  • Altered passage of stool
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Subjective distension
  • Excessive mucus discharge in stool

20% Rating

Abdominal pain caused by bowel movements at least three days per month during the previous three months and at least two of the following symptoms:

  • Change in frequency of defecation
  • Change in stool form
  • Altered stool passage
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Subjective distension
  • Excessive mucus discharge with bowel movements

30% Rating

Abdominal pain related to bowel movements at least one day per week for the last three months, plus at least two of the additional symptoms listed previously.

How to Establish a Service Connection for IBS

To receive VA disability benefits for most service-connected disabilities, you must show that you have a diagnosed condition and that an event or injury during your military service led to the condition. Establishing a service connection is a critical part of your VA disability application, and many appeals are focused on strengthening the evidence to show this connection. If you have been denied VA disability benefits for IBS, contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin to discuss your eligibility for appeal. We may be able to help you prove that your IBS was caused by your military service and show how it negatively impacts your life.

A service connection can be made by showing a direct service connection or a secondary service connection. It is highly recommended that you provide medical records and supporting statements or documents in your initial claim. The VA may request that you complete a Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam to assist in determining your rating for IBS.

Important Factors in IBS VA Disability Claims

Most applicants focus on medical and military records when submitting their claims. While these documents are helpful, lay evidence also provides valuable support in VA disability claims. Lay evidence for an IBS VA disability claim includes personal statements and letters from friends, family, and other people who know you.

If the VA requests that you complete a C&P Exam, here’s what to expect from that step in the claims process:

  • This exam is not about treatment or diagnosis
  • The doctor will ask you questions and perform a physical assessment
  • Additional tests may be ordered at the discretion of the examiner
  • C&P Exams usually take 15 – 20 minutes
  • The VA may request a second C&P Exam if additional information or assessments are needed

If you have questions about what you may have overlooked or left out in your claim to have received a denial or want to discuss other important aspects of your IBS claim, contact our VA disability lawyer for guidance. Our legal team will help you identify what is missing from your claim and gather strong supporting evidence to appeal your denial.

Appealing or Increasing Your VA Disability Rating

You have a limited amount of time to appeal a VA disability claim decision. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin today to schedule a free consultation. We have extensive experience helping veterans in Tennessee pursue VA disability benefits after denials.