DC 7346 — Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia
Also known as: acid reflux, gerd, heartburn, Hiatal and parasophageal, hiatal hernia, reflux, esophagus, stomach acid, indigestion
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.
Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia → Barrett's Esophagus
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic acid reflux damages the esophageal lining, which can lead to Barrett's esophagus.
Filing tip
Ask your doctor to clearly state that the secondary condition is at least as likely as not caused or aggravated by the primary service-connected condition. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia led to or worsened barrett's esophagus.
Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia → Asthma, bronchial
How the connection is commonly explained
Acid reflux can trigger or worsen asthma and other respiratory symptoms.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia led to or worsened asthma, bronchial.
Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia → Esophagus, stricture
How the connection is commonly explained
Repeated acid damage can cause scarring and narrowing of the esophagus.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia led to or worsened esophagus, stricture.
Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia → Major depressive disorder
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic GI distress and dietary limitations commonly contribute to depression.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia led to or worsened major depressive disorder.
Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia → Sleep Apnea Syndromes
How the connection is commonly explained
GERD and sleep apnea have a bidirectional relationship, and nighttime reflux can worsen breathing problems.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia led to or worsened sleep apnea syndromes.
This condition may also be secondary to
Asthma medications (corticosteroids) worsen acid reflux, and reflux triggers asthma
Bulimia nervosa causes GERD and esophageal damage through repeated purging with stomach acid.
Anxiety increases stomach acid production and worsens reflux
PTSD disrupts the autonomic nervous system, increasing stomach acid production. Stress is a well-documented trigger for GERD.
Post-cholecystectomy syndrome commonly causes bile reflux and GERD symptoms.
Chronic stress and adjustment disorder increase stomach acid production, worsening or causing GERD.
NSAID use for endometriosis pain management commonly causes or worsens GERD and acid reflux over time.
GI conditions often co-occur — shared inflammatory mechanisms
Depression medications and stress worsen acid reflux
Migraine medications such as NSAIDs can cause or worsen GERD.
Sleep apnea increases intra-abdominal pressure, worsening acid reflux.
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.