Diagnostic Code 7336 · 38 CFR §4.114
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the rectum and anus that can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and discomfort. They are extremely common among veterans — prolonged sitting in vehicles, heavy lifting, dietary changes during deployment, and limited access to proper facilities all contribute. While many people think of hemorrhoids as a minor inconvenience, chronic severe hemorrhoids can significantly impact quality of life. The VA provides ratings based on the severity and frequency of symptoms.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Mild or moderate hemorrhoids that are present but do not cause significant ongoing problems. Occasional symptoms managed with over-the-counter treatments. |
| 10% | Large or thrombotic hemorrhoids that are irreducible (cannot be pushed back in), with excessive redundant tissue showing poor blood supply and frequent recurrence. The condition causes regular discomfort and bleeding. |
| 20% | Hemorrhoids with persistent bleeding, secondary anemia, or anal fissures. This is the maximum schedular rating. At this level the hemorrhoids cause chronic blood loss significant enough to cause anemia, or the associated tissue damage creates painful fissures. |
Colorectal or GI specialist examination documenting the type and severity of hemorrhoids. Lab results showing anemia if applicable. Treatment records including any surgical procedures (hemorrhoidectomy, banding, sclerotherapy). Documentation of frequency of bleeding episodes and any complications.
If your hemorrhoids are chronic and cause ongoing symptoms, absolutely. Even a 0 or 10 percent rating establishes service connection, which can be increased later if the condition worsens. Additionally, hemorrhoids can be secondary to other GI conditions, adding to your overall combined rating.
DC 7336 caps at 20 percent. However, if hemorrhoids require surgical treatment that results in complications, or if they are part of a broader GI condition, you may have additional ratable conditions.
Yes. If your hemorrhoids developed during service or were aggravated by service conditions (prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, field conditions), they qualify for service connection. Service treatment records showing hemorrhoid treatment are the best evidence.