IBS Secondary to PTSD
The brain-gut connection
Peer-reviewed research consistently shows increased IBS prevalence in populations with PTSD, anxiety disorders, and combat trauma exposure. The mechanism involves stress-mediated changes in gut motility, visceral sensitivity, and the gut microbiome.
Evidence pattern
- Service-connected PTSD.
- Rome IV criteria diagnosis or documented clinical diagnosis of IBS with alternative diagnoses ruled out.
- Symptom diary or treatment records showing frequency of episodes, dietary triggers, and functional impact.
- opinion linking IBS to PTSD via the brain-gut axis.
Rating under DC 7319
- 0% — mild; disturbances of bowel function with occasional episodes of abdominal distress.
- 10% — moderate; frequent episodes of bowel disturbance with abdominal distress.
- 30% — severe; diarrhea, or alternating diarrhea and constipation, with more or less constant abdominal distress.
Disclaimer
Educational and informational content only — not legal or medical advice. Oakridge Claims is a private, independent business and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Representation is provided by a VA- in accordance with 38 C.F.R. § 14.636. Outcomes depend on individual facts; no specific result is guaranteed.
Where these claims break down
- ×Filing without ruling out celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or other structural causes — IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion.
- ×Underreporting symptoms because IBS is embarrassing; VA can only rate what is documented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Useful Tools & Topics
Have questions about your specific case?
Every veteran's facts are different. A free initial consultation with a VA-Accredited Claims Agent can tell you whether your matter is a fit for representation — and what the right next step looks like either way.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. No guarantees of outcomes are made. Each claim is decided on its individual facts.
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