Hemorrhoids can be a painful and debilitating condition, especially for veterans who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
When hemorrhoids develop or worsen as a result of IBS, veterans may be eligible for VA disability compensation. This guide will explain how to file a claim for hemorrhoids secondary to IBS, what the VA disability rating for hemorrhoids is, and how to increase your chances of securing benefits.
Can You Claim Hemorrhoids for VA Disability?
Yes, veterans can file for VA disability for hemorrhoids if the condition is connected to their military service or secondary to another service-connected condition like IBS. Hemorrhoids may qualify for VA disability if they cause significant pain, discomfort, or bleeding that interferes with daily life and work.
Hemorrhoids are rated by the VA under Diagnostic Code 7336, and the VA assigns ratings based on the severity of the condition and its impact on the veteran’s quality of life.
For more on filing a VA claim for digestive system conditions, check out this helpful article: How to File a VA Claim for Chronic Pain.
Need Some More Help with your VA Disability?
Learn more about the VA Disability process and get help with our VA Disability Chatbot programmed and trained by AI
How to File a VA Claim for Hemorrhoids Secondary to IBS
If your hemorrhoids are caused or aggravated by IBS, you can file a claim for secondary service connection. This means you are claiming that your hemorrhoids are secondary to your already service-connected IBS. Here’s how to file a claim:
1. Gather Medical Evidence
First, gather all medical records that document your hemorrhoid diagnosis, treatment, and how it relates to your IBS. This evidence is crucial to establishing a connection between the two conditions. Medical evidence can include:
- Doctor’s notes documenting the severity of hemorrhoids.
- IBS diagnosis and treatment records.
- Records showing flare-ups or worsening of hemorrhoids due to IBS symptoms, such as straining during bowel movements.
For more information on the evidence needed for your claim, check out the VA’s guide: VA Evidence for Claims.
2. Get a Nexus Letter
A nexus letter from a qualified healthcare provider is essential for establishing the connection between your hemorrhoids and IBS. The letter should explain that your hemorrhoids are “at least as likely as not” caused or aggravated by IBS. This letter helps solidify the secondary service connection for your VA claim. You may be able to get this from your primary provider or a provider that helps you deal with your hemorrhoids.
3. Submit Your VA Claim
Once you have gathered the necessary evidence, you can file your claim online through the VA eBenefits portal or by submitting VA Form 21-526EZ by mail. Be sure to include all relevant medical records, nexus letters, and service documents that support your claim.
You can file your claim online here: How to File a VA Claim.
VA Disability Rating for Hemorrhoids
The VA rating for hemorrhoids is based on the severity of the condition and its impact on the veteran’s ability to function. The VA assigns ratings under Diagnostic Code 7336 for external or internal hemorrhoids, as follows:
- 0% Rating: Hemorrhoids are mild or moderate, with symptoms such as occasional discomfort or itching, but they do not significantly interfere with daily life.
- 10% Rating: Hemorrhoids that are large or thrombotic, irreducible, and cause frequent recurrences.
- 20% Rating: Hemorrhoids with persistent bleeding and secondary anemia, or fissures (tears in the anal lining).
For more details on hemorrhoid ratings, you can visit: VA Rating for Hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids Secondary to IBS VA Rating
When filing for hemorrhoids secondary to IBS, the VA will evaluate both conditions to determine the appropriate disability rating. While IBS has its own diagnostic code (7319), hemorrhoids are rated separately under 7336. The VA may combine the ratings for both conditions, taking into account how they impact your overall health and ability to work.
For example:
- A veteran may have a 10% rating for IBS and a 10% rating for hemorrhoids. The VA will use the combined ratings table to calculate the overall disability percentage.
Can I Get Disability for Hemorrhoids?
Yes, you can receive VA disability for hemorrhoids if you can establish that the condition is service-connected or secondary to another service-related condition like IBS. It’s important to provide as much medical evidence as possible to support your claim and demonstrate how hemorrhoids interfere with your daily life.
If your hemorrhoids cause significant bleeding, pain, or complications like anemia, you may qualify for a higher disability rating.
