Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7319, Diagnostic Code 7319, from 0% to 30% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 30% rating requires: Abdominal pain related to defecation at least one day per week during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7319 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 30%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7319
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%, 20%, 30%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome, mild: Occasional episodes of altered bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), minimal abdominal discomfort, symptoms controlled with diet and/or OTC medications, not interfering with daily activities.
Note: Rome III/IV criteria used for diagnosis. Also known as spastic colon.
Abdominal pain related to defecation at least once during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension
Abdominal pain related to defecation for at least three days per month during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension
Abdominal pain related to defecation at least one day per week during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension
“Abdominal pain related to defecation for at least three days per month during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension”
Common Questions About Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)?
The VA rates Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) under Diagnostic Code 7319 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Irritable bowel syndrome, mild: Occasional episodes of altered bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), minimal abdominal discomfort, symptoms controlled with diet and/or OTC medications, not interfering with daily activities.. The maximum 30% rating requires: Abdominal pain related to defecation at least one day per week during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)?
The VA rates Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7319, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7319. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 30% rating for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)?
A 0% rating requires: Irritable bowel syndrome, mild: Occasional episodes of altered bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), minimal abdominal discomfort, symptoms controlled with diet and/or OTC medications, not interfering with daily activities.. A 30% rating requires: Abdominal pain related to defecation at least one day per week during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)?
Service connection for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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