VA Disability Pertaining to Stomach, Liver & Intestines:
Conditions like IBS, GERD, and Hepatitis C are relatively common among veterans. This suggests disability claims related to these disorders are likely to be filed with some frequency. Environmental exposures (burn pits, contaminated water), combat stress, and underlying mental health conditions contribute to the development of stomach, liver, and intestinal disorders among veterans. These factors further indicate that claims for these conditions are not uncommon.
Common Service-Connected Conditions:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Functional disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Can be worsened by stress or linked to environmental exposures during service.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD): Include Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. These autoimmune diseases cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and damage.
Hepatitis C: Viral infection of the liver, potentially contracted from contaminated medical instruments or blood exposure during service.
Cirrhosis: Liver scarring, can be linked to alcohol abuse or other conditions during service.
Diverticulitis: Small pouches in the colon become inflamed.
Various Cancers: Stomach, colon, or liver cancer can be connected to burn pit exposure, Agent Orange, or other service-related toxins.
VA Disability Ratings:
The VA rates disabilities of the digestive system based on the severity of symptoms, frequency of flare-ups, and the impact on your life. Ratings are specific to each condition, but here's a general idea:
Mild symptoms or infrequent flare-ups: May receive 10%
Moderate impairment, requiring medication: Up to 30%
Severe, disabling symptoms: 60% or higher, depending on condition.
Important Considerations:
Presumptive Conditions: Check if your service location or exposure history gives any presumptive status for specific gastrointestinal conditions.
Secondary Conditions: Stomach, liver, or intestinal conditions can lead to malnutrition, mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, and more. File for service-connected secondary conditions as well.
Nexus Letters: A letter from your doctor clearly linking your current condition to an event or factor during your service strengthens your claim.
Getting a proper diagnosis, gathering evidence, and establishing service connection can be challenging for these conditions. Consider seeking help from an accredited veterans law attorney experienced in VA disability claims.
