Diagnostic Code 7204 · 38 CFR §4.114
Esophageal spasm (also called cardiospasm or achalasia) is a condition where the muscles of the esophagus contract abnormally, causing difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and regurgitation of food. The lower esophageal sphincter may fail to relax properly, trapping food in the esophagus. This condition can significantly interfere with eating and nutrition. Veterans may develop this from stress-related conditions, nerve damage, or as a complication of other service-connected gastrointestinal disorders.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | |
| 10% |
Esophageal manometry results showing abnormal contractions, Barium swallow showing esophageal motility problems, Upper endoscopy results, Treatment records documenting medication and procedures, Weight records and dietary restriction documentation