How Does VA Rate IBS? Diagnostic Code 7319 Explained

How does VA rate IBS?

38 CFR 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7319 lists 10%, 20% and 30% levels. The schedule looks at how often abdominal pain related to defecation occurs over the prior three months, alongside two or more of six listed symptoms.

The schedule lists 10% where abdominal pain related to defecation occurs at least once in the prior 3 months, 20% where it occurs at least 3 days a month, and 30% where it occurs at least 1 day a week. Each level lists two or more of six symptoms: change in stool frequency, change in stool form, altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), mucorrhea, abdominal bloating, subjective distension.

38 CFR 4.31 covers zero percent evaluations where a code lists none.

What is the IBS DBQ?

The Intestinal Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire is a VA form a clinician can complete. It has sections for symptoms and pain frequency.

Can IBS be rated with GERD?

38 CFR 4.114's predominant-disability rule applies only to the diagnostic codes listed in that provision. IBS (DC 7319) is in that group. GERD (DC 7206) is not. Separate evaluations remain subject to the rule against evaluating the same manifestations more than once (38 CFR 4.14).

The matching condition hub on the RatingScope app is GERD VA disability criteria guidance.