How VA rates irritable bowel syndrome
VA rates IBS under the revised 38 CFR § 4.114, DC 7319. The current schedule uses frequency of abdominal pain related to defecation plus at least two of six listed bowel features; it no longer uses the former mild/moderate/severe wording.
Rating criteria from the tool data
| Rating | What VA looks for |
|---|---|
| 10% | Pain related to defecation at least once during the previous 3 months, plus at least two listed bowel features |
| 20% | Pain related to defecation at least 3 days per month during the previous 3 months, plus at least two listed bowel features |
| 30% | Pain related to defecation at least 1 day per week during the previous 3 months, plus at least two listed bowel features |
DBQ and symptom topics to review
Review these topics against your own records and symptoms. Do not exaggerate or minimize; describe functional impact accurately.
- Abdominal pain related to defecation at least once in the previous three months, plus at least two listed bowel changes10%Current DC 7319
- Abdominal pain related to defecation at least 3 days per month for 3 months, plus at least two listed bowel changes20%Current DC 7319
- Abdominal pain related to defecation at least 1 day per week for 3 months, plus at least two listed bowel changes30%Current DC 7319
What may happen in the exam room
- History and abdominal examination
- Review of testing used to rule out or identify other digestive conditions
- Review of treatment and symptom pattern
Measurements and findings to understand
- Frequency of pain related to defecation
- Stool frequency and form changes
- Straining or urgency
- Mucorrhea, bloating, or subjective distension
Questions the examiner may cover
- How often is pain related to bowel movements?
- Which stool changes occur?
- How do urgency or symptoms affect work and travel?
- What testing and treatment have you had?
Functional-impact language to think through
Use plain, truthful wording that matches your records and daily limitations. These examples are prompts for accuracy, not scripts.
- Use a three-month symptom log when possible.
- Describe frequency and the specific listed bowel features.
- Explain functional impact without exaggeration.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the obsolete mild/moderate/severe criteria
- Reporting diarrhea alone without pain frequency and other features
- Failing to distinguish other diagnosed digestive disease
Evidence to organize before the exam
- Intestinal Conditions DBQ
- Gastroenterology notes and testing
- Medication records
- Three-month bowel-symptom log
Preparation notes
- Answer clinically and directly.
- Do not change diet or medication for the exam without clinician guidance.
Important context
The six listed bowel features: change in stool frequency; change in stool form; altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency); mucorrhea; abdominal bloating; subjective distension. At least two are required alongside the specified pain frequency. Straining and urgency belong to one feature, not two.
Official rating source
38 CFR 4.114, DC 7319. Checked 2026-09-04. Educational preparation only; not a personal rating.