GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) VA Disability Rating

VA rates gastroesophageal reflux disease under the digestive system schedule in 38 CFR 4.114. GERD has historically been rated by analogy to hiatal hernia (DC 7346); the revised digestive schedule rates gastroesophageal reflux disease under DC 7206. Ratings depend on symptom severity, frequency, and complications such as stricture or aspiration.

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Educational information only. StratForge is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and does not guarantee any rating, decision, or benefit.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) rating percentages and criteria

Criteria are paraphrased from 38 CFR 4.114. Read the official text before relying on any summary.

Higher evaluations

Reserved for documented complications such as recurrent esophageal stricture requiring dilation, aspiration, or material weight loss and impairment of health.

Intermediate evaluations

Persistently recurrent symptoms — reflux, regurgitation, substernal or arm/shoulder pain — that produce considerable impairment of health.

Lower evaluations

Documented reflux symptoms that are less severe or controlled on medication.

View official rating criteria

Common symptoms

Heartburn and burning chest pain, especially after eating or lying down
Regurgitation of food or sour fluid
Difficulty or pain when swallowing (dysphagia)
Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
Sleep disruption from nighttime reflux
Nausea and epigastric pain

Evidence VA may consider

Upper endoscopy (EGD), barium swallow, or pH study results
Prescription history for proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers
Treatment notes describing frequency and severity of symptoms
Weight records if you have lost weight
Service treatment records showing gastrointestinal complaints in service
Statements describing dietary limits and sleep disruption

Not sure what is already in your file? Request and review your VA C-File or gather your medical records.

C&P exam information for gerd (gastroesophageal reflux disease)

Report how many times per week you have reflux episodes, on medication.
Explain what medication does and does not control.
Mention any dilation procedures, stricture, aspiration, or hospitalizations.
Describe sleep interruption and dietary restrictions you live with.

More detail: How to prepare for a VA C&P exam.

Potential secondary conditions

GERD secondary to medication taken for a service-connected condition (such as NSAIDs for a musculoskeletal disability)
GERD secondary to PTSD or anxiety
Sleep apnea aggravated by GERD
Dental erosion secondary to chronic reflux
Esophageal stricture secondary to long-standing GERD

Learn how these claims work on the VA secondary conditions guide.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) VA claim FAQs

Is GERD commonly claimed as secondary?

Yes. Many veterans claim GERD as secondary to medications prescribed for a service-connected condition or to a service-connected mental health condition. A medical opinion linking the two is usually necessary.

Does taking medication hurt my rating?

VA rates the disability picture shown in the record. Describe your symptoms accurately, including breakthrough symptoms that occur even while medicated.