You may get up to a 20% disability rating from the VA for hemorrhoids, depending on your symptoms. According to the VA, this rating results in $338.49 in monthly compensation.
A hemorrhoid is a rectum disorder that can cause discomfort during bowel movements, along with swelling and itching. If you are a veteran with hemorrhoids, you may be able to get disability benefits depending on the service connection of the condition.
In this post, we will talk about what hemorrhoids are, the disability ratings available for the condition, and how you may get those benefits as a veteran. Let’s get started –
What Are Hemorrhoids?
The presence of swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus is called hemorrhoids. Nearly three out of four adults suffer from it at some point in their life. There are two types of this condition:
- Internal: When the hemorrhoids form inside anal fissures, it does not cause pain or discomfort except when passing stool, as it can cause irritation.
- External: External hemorrhoids happen on the outside of the rectum, under the skin around the anus. It can result in bleeding or discomfort.
Hemorrhoids Symptoms
These symptoms are common with individuals suffering from hemorrhoids:
- Discomfort and pain
- Swelling around the anus
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- Irritation and itching
VA Disability Rating for Hemorrhoids
The VA rates hemorrhoids under Diagnostic Code 7336, which allows up to a rating of 20%. Here are the available ratings for this disorder:
- 0% VA Rating for Hemorrhoids: A 0% rating means that you will not get disability compensation for the condition but may be eligible for medical benefits from the VA. For hemorrhoids, the VA may assign a 0% rating if the condition is moderate or mild with no frequent discomfort.
- 10% VA Rating for Hemorrhoids: If you face symptoms like irreducible, thrombotic, or large, with excessive redundant tissue. This rating will result in $171.23 in monthly compensation as of the rating in 2023.
- 20% VA Rating for Hemorrhoids: This is the highest available rating for hemorrhoids, which is assigned to individuals who face persistent bleeding along with fissures or secondary anemia. A 20% rating will amount to $338.49 in monthly compensation.
How to Get VA Disability Benefits for Hemorrhoids
To get disability benefits for hemorrhoids, you need to check all these points:
- Having an in-service event and injury
- Current diagnosis of hemorrhoids and
- A nexus/service connection between the event/injury with hemorrhoids
In simpler terms, your condition must be related to your military service. As in, an in-service event or injury should either directly cause the condition or worsen the condition if it existed previously.
If you have another service-connected condition that has resulted in developing hemorrhoids or worsening the disorder, then hemorrhoids can be considered as a secondary-service-connected condition.
Considering you check all these marks, you can apply for disability benefits for hemorrhoids. You will likely be asked to attend a C&P exam where medical experts will examine the severity of your condition.
Conclusion
Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can be treated in most cases. As a result, getting disability benefits can help you greatly in treating the disorder. If you are struggling with getting your VA benefits for hemorrhoids, you could get help from the experts at VA Disability Coach with your claim.