Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia are rated under DC 7346, which uses the same difficulty swallowing schedule as GERD (DC 7206). This condition occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Ratings are based on the severity of swallowing difficulties and strictures.
VA Rating Levels
No daily symptoms and no requirement for daily medications.
Requires daily medication to control symptoms, even without esophageal strictures.
Esophageal stricture(s) causing difficulty swallowing that require dilation one to two times per year.
Recurrent or refractory stricture(s) requiring dilation three or more times per year, dilation with steroids, or an esophageal stent.
Recurrent or refractory stricture(s) with aspiration, undernutrition, or substantial weight loss, combined with surgical correction or PEG tube.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Hiatal hernias are not rated under the regular hernia code (DC 7338). They use the GERD/difficulty swallowing schedule instead.
- →If you take daily medication for symptoms caused by your hiatal hernia, that supports a 10% rating. Keep your prescription records current.
- →Many veterans have both a hiatal hernia and GERD. Since they share the same rating schedule, they will be combined into one evaluation.
- →If your hernia causes significant swallowing problems, make sure those are documented with appropriate testing like barium swallow or endoscopy.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.114, DC 7346