Body system: Digestive SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.114DBQ: DBQ GI Intestinal (other than surgical or infectious)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive condition that causes recurring abdominal pain along with changes in bowel habits like diarrhea, constipation, or both. The VA rates IBS based on how often you experience abdominal pain related to bowel movements and how many additional symptoms you have. Ratings range from 10% (pain at least once in three months) to 30% (pain at least one day per week), with each level requiring at least two other symptoms like changes in stool frequency, bloating, or straining.
Rating levels
30% — To qualify for this rating level, you must have stomach pain related to bowel movements at least one day per week for the past three months. Additionally, you need to have two or more of these symptoms: changes in how often you have bowel movements, changes in stool appearance or consistency, difficulty with bowel movements like straining or sudden urgency, mucus in your stool (mucorrhea), feeling bloated, or feeling like your abdomen is swollen even if it doesn't look swollen to others.
20% — To qualify for this rating, you must have stomach pain that's connected to having bowel movements for at least three days every month over a three-month period. You also need to have at least two of these additional symptoms: changes in how often you go to the bathroom, changes in your stool consistency (hard, soft, loose), difficulty with bowel movements like straining or sudden urgency, mucus in your stool (mucorrhea), feeling bloated, or feeling like your stomach is swollen even if it doesn't look that way.
10% — To qualify for this rating, you must have had stomach pain connected to bowel movements at least once in the past three months, plus at least two of these symptoms: your bowel movements happen more or less often than normal, your stool looks different (harder, softer, or different shape), you have to strain or feel urgent when going to the bathroom, you have mucus in your stool, your belly feels bloated, or your abdomen feels swollen or distended. These symptoms show you have IBS that affects your daily life but is still considered mild compared to higher rating levels.
Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.