Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7319)

The VA rates Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) under Diagnostic Code 7319 at the following tiers: 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.

Diagnostic Code 7319 is the VA rating identifier for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) within 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7319. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) under DC 7319 is 30%. This tier 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. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7319, Diagnostic Code 7319. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS) may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

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 that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.