VA Claims Blueprint

/ Conditions · Digestive

Peptic ulcer disease VA Claim Guide

Peptic ulcer disease is rated by the VA under the digestive portion of the rating schedule. Get a GI workup that rules out other causes and document symptom frequency / impact. Many digestive claims thrive as secondaries to PTSD or to medications.

38 CFR §4.114

Common symptoms

  • ▸Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
  • ▸Reflux, nausea, or vomiting
  • ▸Diarrhea, constipation, or altered bowel habits
  • ▸Unintended weight loss in severe cases

Common evidence

  • ▸GI specialist diagnosis and workup
  • ▸Endoscopy / colonoscopy / imaging as applicable
  • ▸Symptom log documenting frequency and severity
  • ▸Medication records

Primary service connection examples

  • ▸Gulf War / SW Asia service (functional GI is presumptive)
  • ▸In-service GI complaints or treatment

Secondary service connection examples

  • ▸GERD secondary to PTSD or NSAIDs
  • ▸IBS secondary to PTSD or anxiety

Rating basics

Rated under 38 CFR §4.114 by severity and impact: mild / moderate / severe criteria with attention to weight loss, anemia, hospitalization, and frequency of exacerbations.

Common denial reasons

  • ✕Self-reported symptoms without diagnostic workup
  • ✕Symptoms attributed to diet or lifestyle
  • ✕Missing nexus for secondary claims