DC 7319 — Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Also known as: ibs, Irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), irritable bowel, stomach cramps, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bowel problems
These are commonly claimed secondary connections linked to this primary disability. Use them as a screening tool for conversations with your doctor, VSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) → Generalized anxiety disorder
How the connection is commonly explained
Fear of episodes and unpredictability causes significant anxiety
Filing tip
File as a secondary claim to DC 7319 (Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)). Provide medical records showing fear of episodes and unpredictability causes significant anxiety and request a nexus opinion linking Generalized anxiety disorder to your service-connected condition.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) → Major depressive disorder
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic GI distress and dietary restrictions lead to depression
Filing tip
File as a secondary claim to DC 7319 (Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)). Provide medical records showing chronic gi distress and dietary restrictions lead to depression and request a nexus opinion linking Major depressive disorder to your service-connected condition.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) → Hemorrhoids, external or internal
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic bowel dysfunction can lead to hemorrhoids
Filing tip
File as a secondary claim to DC 7319 (Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)). Provide medical records showing chronic bowel dysfunction can lead to hemorrhoids and request a nexus opinion linking Hemorrhoids, external or internal to your service-connected condition.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) → Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia
How the connection is commonly explained
GI conditions often co-occur — shared inflammatory mechanisms
Filing tip
File as a secondary claim to DC 7319 (Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)). Provide medical records showing gi conditions often co-occur — shared inflammatory mechanisms and request a nexus opinion linking Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia to your service-connected condition.
This condition may also be secondary to
Fibromyalgia and IBS frequently co-occur — shared central sensitization
Anxiety directly affects gut motility through the gut-brain axis
Endometrial implants on the bowel and pelvic adhesions frequently cause IBS-like symptoms including bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramping.
Depression disrupts gut-brain axis function
Panic disorder and chronic anxiety worsen IBS through the gut-brain axis, increasing bowel motility and abdominal distress.
PTSD affects the gut-brain axis, disrupting normal bowel function. The stress response commonly manifests as GI symptoms.
How to File a Secondary Claim
Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.