GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
GERD is rated under DC 7206 using the same schedule as difficulty swallowing (DC 7203). Ratings are based on the severity of esophageal strictures and the treatments required. A 10% rating is appropriate even without evidence of strictures if daily medication is needed to control symptoms. GERD cannot be rated separately from difficulty swallowing. If the evaluation is based on strictures, the condition must be confirmed by barium swallow, CT scan, or endoscopy (EGD). Note: GERD is not considered a functional disorder for Gulf War presumptive purposes.
VA Rating Levels
No daily symptoms and no requirement for daily medications.
Esophageal stricture(s) requiring daily medication to control difficulty swallowing. A 10% rating is also appropriate if daily medication is required to control other GERD symptoms, even without strictures.
Esophageal stricture(s) causing difficulty swallowing that require dilation one to two times per year.
Recurrent or refractory stricture(s) causing difficulty swallowing requiring dilation three or more times per year, dilation with steroids at least once per year, or an esophageal stent.
Recurrent or refractory stricture(s) with aspiration of food or fluid into the lungs, undernutrition, or substantial weight loss, combined with surgical correction or PEG tube placement.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →If you take daily medication like omeprazole or pantoprazole for acid reflux, that supports a 10% rating even if you do not have strictures. Keep a record of your prescriptions and refills.
- →GERD is one of the most commonly claimed digestive conditions and is frequently filed secondary to PTSD, medications for other conditions, or sleep apnea.
- →If your GERD has caused esophageal strictures, those must be documented by imaging or endoscopy. Ask your GI doctor for copies of any barium swallow or EGD results.
- →Hiatal hernias are rated under this same schedule. If you have a hiatal hernia causing reflux symptoms, it will be evaluated using these criteria.
- →GERD cannot be rated separately from difficulty swallowing. They share the same evaluation, so make sure all related symptoms are documented together.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.114, DC 7206