Diagnostic Code 7304 · 38 CFR §4.114
A gastric ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach. It causes burning stomach pain, nausea, bloating, and in severe cases bleeding or perforation. Gastric ulcers can be caused by H. pylori infection, prolonged NSAID use (common in military for pain management), stress, and other factors. Veterans may develop gastric ulcers from the physical and psychological stress of service, heavy NSAID use for musculoskeletal injuries, or H. pylori infection contracted during deployment.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | |
| 40% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% |
Upper endoscopy (EGD) showing the ulcer, H. pylori testing results, Treatment records showing medication history, Records of any bleeding episodes, hospitalizations, or surgeries, Weight records if weight loss is present, Lab results showing anemia if applicable