Understanding IBS VA Rating: A common condition which affects humans going about their daily activities is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although doctors are unable to pinpoint the cause of IBS, it has been scientifically-proven that serving in the armed forces may be a contributing factor.
Symptoms of IBS can include diarrhea, cramps, abdominal distress, and at its worst level, individuals have difficulty performing daily activities.
One-third of female members of the armed forces are believed to suffer from IBS. Men suffer from IBS at a lower rate, but male veterans suffer from it at a higher rate than the general population.
Depending on the severity of their symptoms, veterans may be entitled to compensation for IBS. Service-related triggers can cause patients to experience symptoms of IBS both during and after their military service. Veterans can seek disability compensation even if they experience symptoms months or years after their service ends.
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Is there an average VA rating for IBS?
According to the VA, IBS is 30%, 10%, or 0% disabling, depending on how it affects the individual’s everyday life, including work and leisure activities.
For a 30 per cent disability rating, the patient must endure severe diarrhea or alternating diarrhea and constipation, as well as chronic and constant abdominal discomfort.
In addition to staying close to a restroom, modifying their eating habits, and controlling their stress levels, individuals with IBS are likely to experience prolonged abdominal discomfort, including cramps and bloating.
When there are frequent occurrences of bowel dysfunction and abdominal distress, the case is considered moderate, and a disability rating of 10% is applied.
Veterans with mild symptoms of diarrhea or constipation may be assigned a 0% disability rating by the VA. Mild symptoms include infrequent diarrhea or constipation, and the rating is given to veterans who do not need to avoid trigger foods constantly.
