Peptic ulcer disease
Peptic ulcer disease is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7304, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Post-operative for perforation or hemorrhage, for three months. Most claims establish the 0% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7304 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.114
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Peptic ulcer disease?
History of peptic ulcer disease documented by endoscopy or diagnostic imaging studies
Episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, that: last for at least three consecutive days in duration; occur three times or less in the past 12 months; and are managed by daily prescribed medication
Episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, that: last for at least three consecutive days in duration; occur four or more times in the past 12 months; and are managed by daily prescribed medication
Continuous abdominal pain with intermittent vomiting, recurrent hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (tarry stools); and manifestations of anemia which require hospitalization at least once in the past 12 months
Post-operative for perforation or hemorrhage, for three months
“Episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, that: last for at least three consecutive days in duration; occur four or more times in the past 12 months; and are managed by daily prescribed medication”
Common Questions About Peptic ulcer disease VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Peptic ulcer disease?
The VA rates Peptic ulcer disease under Diagnostic Code 7304 at 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: History of peptic ulcer disease documented by endoscopy or diagnostic imaging studies. The maximum 100% rating requires: Post-operative for perforation or hemorrhage, for three months.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Peptic ulcer disease?
The VA rates Peptic ulcer disease under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7304, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 100% rating for Peptic ulcer disease?
A 0% rating requires: History of peptic ulcer disease documented by endoscopy or diagnostic imaging studies. A 100% rating requires: Post-operative for perforation or hemorrhage, for three months. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Peptic ulcer disease qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Peptic ulcer disease 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 Peptic ulcer disease?
Service connection for Peptic ulcer disease 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 Peptic ulcer disease?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Peptic ulcer disease 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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