The three levels
Every level needs abdominal pain related to bowel movements plus two or more of these: a change in how often you go, a change in stool form, straining or urgency, mucus, bloating, or a feeling of swelling (distension). What changes between the levels is how often the pain happens over the last three months:
- 30%: at least one day a week.
- 20%: at least three days a month.
- 10%: at least once.
These rules took effect in 2024. Older decisions used different wording ("mild," "moderate," "severe"), so a letter from before then may read differently.
What the evidence has to show
- A diagnosis. IBS diagnosed by a doctor.
- How often. A symptom log over at least three months: the days you had pain, and which of the other symptoms came with it.
- The connection to service. See below.
Connecting it to service
- Gulf War veterans: IBS is named in the VA's rules as a qualifying condition for veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater. It can be presumed connected to that service if it shows up at 10% or more by December 31, 2026 (the current deadline). If this is you, do not wait.
- Direct: stomach problems that started or were treated in service.
- Secondary: IBS linked to another service-connected condition, often PTSD or anxiety, or medication for another condition. Needs a medical opinion that explains the link.
How we help
We check your service dates and locations for the Gulf War rule, help you set up a symptom log that matches what the rating looks at, and look at whether a secondary link fits your file.
Have questions about your own situation?
Request a free consultation call. We'll text you to set up your free 15-minute call, where we talk through where you are and tell you plainly whether we can help. No cost, no obligation.