Gastric Ulcer
DC 7304 §4.114 Digestive ICD-10: K25.9 Direct
Stomach ulcer. Rated by severity of symptoms.
VA rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Severe; pain only partially relieved by standard ulcer therapy, periodic vomiting, recurrent hematemesis or melena, with manifestations of anemia and weight loss productive of definite impairment of health |
| 40% | Moderately severe; less than severe but with impairment of health manifested by anemia and weight loss; or recurrent incapacitating episodes averaging 10 days or more in duration at least four or more times a year |
| 20% | Moderate; recurring episodes of severe symptoms two or three times a year averaging 10 days in duration; or with continuous moderate manifestations |
| 10% | Mild; with recurring symptoms once or twice yearly |
Filing this claim
This is typically filed as a direct service connection claim. You need a current diagnosis, evidence of in-service event or exposure, and a nexus letter linking them. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.
Step by step
- File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
- Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
- Get a nexus letter — magic phrase: "at least as likely as not."
- Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
- If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
- File the formal 21-526EZ.
Source: 38 CFR §4.114. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.