GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease. Diagnostic Code 7206.
Overview
GERD is chronic acid reflux that can cause heartburn and, over time, narrowing of the esophagus (stricture). Since May 19, 2024, VA rates GERD based on documented esophageal stricture.
How VA rates it
Diagnostic Code 7206 · 38 CFR 4.114
Here is a plain language summary of the rating levels in the regulation. Read the official text for the exact wording.
| Rating | Summary of the criteria |
|---|---|
| 80% | Recurrent or refractory stricture causing trouble swallowing with aspiration, undernutrition, or substantial weight loss, treated with surgery or a feeding tube. |
| 50% | Recurrent or refractory stricture requiring dilatation 3 or more times per year, dilatation with steroids, or a stent. |
| 30% | Recurrent stricture requiring dilatation no more than 2 times per year. |
| 10% | Stricture that requires daily medication to control swallowing trouble. |
| 0% | Documented history without daily symptoms or daily medication. |
The regulation says findings must be documented by barium swallow, CT, or endoscopy (EGD).
Common secondary connections
These are conditions often discussed in connection with GERD. A secondary claim generally needs medical evidence that one condition caused or worsened another. This list is general education, not a suggestion about any claim.
- Often discussed as secondary to medications for pain, or to PTSD
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
Presumptive notes
VA does not list this condition on its main presumptive lists covered in this library. Service connection is generally shown with evidence of a current condition, an in service event, and a link between them. See VA hazardous materials exposure for other presumptive programs.
Evidence veterans generally gather
VA describes evidence types in its evidence guide. For this condition, veterans often collect:
- Endoscopy or barium swallow results
- Medication records
- Treatment records
- A current diagnosis from a medical provider
- Service treatment records and personnel records
- VA and private treatment records
- Statements from you, family, or fellow service members (lay statements)
- A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) completed by a provider, if available
Official source
Rating levels: 38 CFR 4.114 on eCFR. Rules change; always confirm the current text.
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