GERD (Acid Reflux)
GERD is typically rated under the criteria for hiatal hernia at 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7346. The VA looks at your symptoms and how they affect your ability to eat and function.
VA Rating Levels
Two or more of the symptoms for the 30% rating, but with less severity. Intermittent heartburn, regurgitation, or mild discomfort when eating.
Persistently recurrent epigastric distress (stomach/chest pain) with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), pyrosis (heartburn), and regurgitation, accompanied by substernal (chest) or arm or shoulder pain. Significant enough to impair your health.
Symptoms of pain, vomiting, material weight loss and hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (bloody stool) with moderate anemia. Or other symptom combinations productive of severe impairment of health. This is the maximum rating.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →GERD is commonly claimed as secondary to PTSD (stress increases acid production), medications (NSAIDs for pain), or anxiety
- →Keep a food and symptom diary showing frequency and severity of episodes
- →Document any weight loss, dietary restrictions, or missed work due to GERD
- →If you take daily medication (PPI like omeprazole), bring your prescription records
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7346