Ulcers.

Experience has shown that the term "peptic ulcer" is not sufficiently specific for rating purposes. Manifest differences in ulcers of the stomach or duodenum in comparison with those at an anastomotic stoma are sufficiently recognized as to warrant two separate graduated descriptions. In evaluating the ulcer, care should be taken that the findings adequately identify the particular location. (38 CFR §4.110 [Ulcers])

Postgastrectomy syndromes.

There are various postgastrectomy symptoms which may occur following anastomotic operations of the stomach. When present, those occurring during or immediately after eating and known as the "dumping syndrome" are characterized by gastrointestinal complaints and generalized symptoms simulating hypoglycemia; those occurring from 1 to 3 hours after eating usually present definite manifestations of hypoglycemia. (38 CFR §4.111 [Post-gastrectomy syndromes])

For purposes of evaluating conditions in Sec. 4.114, the term "substantial weight loss" means a loss of greater than 20 percent of the individual's baseline weight, sustained for three months or longer; and the term "minor weight loss" means a weight loss of 10 to 20 percent of the individual's baseline weight, sustained for three months or longer. The term "inability to gain weight" means that there has been substantial weight loss with inability to regain it despite appropriate therapy. "Baseline weight" means the average weight for the two-year-period preceding onset of the disease (38 CFR §4.112 [Weight loss]).

Coexisting abdominal conditions.

There are diseases of the digestive system, particularly within the abdomen, which, while differing in the site of pathology, produce a common disability picture characterized in the main by varying degrees of abdominal distress or pain, anemia and disturbances in nutrition. Consequently, certain coexisting diseases in this area, as indicated in the instruction under the title "Diseases of the Digestive System," do not lend themselves to distinct and separate disability evaluations without violating the fundamental principle relating to pyramiding as outlined in 38 CFR 4.114. (38 CFR 4.113 [Coexisting abdominal conditions])

Schedule of ratings—digestive system.

Ratings under diagnostic codes 7301 to 7329, inclusive, 7331, 7342, and 7345 to 7348 inclusive will not be combined with each other. A single evaluation will be assigned under the diagnostic code which reflects the predominant disability picture, with elevation to the next higher evaluation where the severity of the overall disability warrants such elevation. (38 CFR 4.114 [Schedule of ratings-digestive system]) 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Hiatal Hernia.

Hemorrhoids

Hepatitis C

Irritable Bowel Syndrome