Peptic Ulcer Disease (Stomach Ulcer)
Peptic ulcer disease is rated under DC 7304 based on the frequency and severity of episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, as well as complications like bleeding. Chronic gastritis (DC 7307), including H. pylori infections, is also rated under this same schedule. This is a presumptive condition if diagnosed within one year of separation or for former POWs held at least 30 days.
VA Rating Levels
History of peptic ulcer disease documented by endoscopy or imaging, but no current symptoms.
Episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting lasting at least three consecutive days, occurring three times or less in the past 12 months, managed by daily prescribed medication.
Episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting lasting at least three consecutive days, occurring four or more times in the past 12 months, managed by daily prescribed medication.
Continuous abdominal pain with intermittent vomiting, recurrent vomiting of blood or tarry stools, and anemia requiring hospitalization at least once in the past 12 months.
Assigned for three months following surgery for perforation or hemorrhage. Then re-evaluated based on residual symptoms.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Chronic gastritis and H. pylori infections are rated using this same peptic ulcer schedule. If you have gastritis, these are the criteria that apply.
- →This is a presumptive condition within one year of separation and for former POWs. If either applies, document the timeline carefully.
- →Track each episode of pain, nausea, or vomiting, including how many days each episode lasted and how many times it happened in the past year. The frequency is what determines your rating.
- →If you have had complications like bleeding (hematemesis or melena) or needed hospitalization, those are critical to document for a higher rating.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.114, DC 7304