GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) does not have its own diagnostic code, so the VA rates it by analogy — most often under Diagnostic Code 7346 (hiatal hernia) at 10%, 30%, or 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms like persistent heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and chest or arm pain. GERD is one of the most common secondary claims, frequently linked to PTSD, anxiety, or the medications used to treat them.
Diagnostic code
DC 7346 (by analogy)
How the rating works
10% = two or more symptoms of the 30% level with lesser severity; 30% = persistently recurrent epigastric distress with dysphagia, pyrosis, and regurgitation, accompanied by substernal/arm/shoulder pain and considerable impairment of health; 60% = symptoms of pain, vomiting, weight loss, and hematemesis or melena with moderate anemia, or a combination productive of severe impairment of health.
Secondary conditions to watch for
These are commonly connected to gerd — each can be rated on top of it with a medical nexus. Most veterans leave these on the table.
Secondary to PTSD / anxiety
Psychiatric conditions and their stress response aggravate reflux.
Secondary to medication
NSAIDs and psychiatric medications commonly cause or worsen GERD.
Evidence that wins this claim
- A diagnosis of GERD (often via endoscopy or a treating provider’s notes).
- A record of prescribed reflux medication (PPIs, H2 blockers).
- A nexus opinion linking GERD to a service-connected condition or its treatment.
- Symptom statements describing frequency and severity.
GERD — frequently asked questions
- How does the VA rate GERD?
- GERD has no dedicated code, so it’s rated by analogy — usually under DC 7346 at 10%, 30%, or 60% based on the severity and combination of symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.
- Can GERD be secondary to PTSD?
- Yes — GERD is a common secondary claim to PTSD and anxiety, and to the medications used to treat them. A nexus opinion connecting the reflux to the primary condition is required.
Updated June 2026. Ratings come from the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4); your exact rating depends on the medical evidence. Educational information, not medical or legal advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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