Can You Get VA Disability for a Hernia? Understanding Eligibility, Ratings, and Benefits

Hernias are a common yet potentially debilitating condition, particularly among veterans who may have experienced physical strain or injuries during their service.

Left untreated, hernias can significantly impact your health, mobility, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, veterans with service-connected hernias may qualify for VA disability benefits, offering financial support and resources to help manage the condition.

Here’s an in-depth look at hernias, their VA disability ratings, and additional benefits available to veterans.

Hernia

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, resulting in a visible or palpable bulge. Common symptoms include:

Pain or discomfort during activities like coughing, lifting, or walking.
Sensitivity or tenderness around the bulge.
Functional limitations that affect daily life.

Hernias are often caused by physical strain, heavy lifting, or conditions like obesity—factors frequently experienced by veterans.

Types

Hernias are categorized by their location:

Inguinal Hernia: Found between the abdomen and groin; the most common type among veterans.
Epigastric Hernia: Occurs in the upper abdomen.
Femoral Hernia: Develops near the thigh.
Hiatal Hernia: Part of the stomach bulges into the chest cavity.
Incisional Hernia: Forms at the site of previous surgical incisions.
Umbilical Hernia: Found near the belly button.

VA Disability Ratings

The VA assigns disability ratings for hernias based on their severity, symptoms, and the impact on a veteran’s daily life. Most hernias (except hiatal hernias) are rated under Diagnostic Code 7338.

Non-Hiatal Hernias

0%: Asymptomatic, easily repairable hernias.
10%: Small hernias causing mild symptoms, qualifying for $175.51 monthly compensation.
100%: Large, irreparable hernias causing significant pain and functional limitations, offering $3,831.30 monthly.

For example, a veteran with a hernia larger than 15 cm, experiencing pain while walking or climbing stairs, may receive a 100% disability rating.

Hiatal Hernias

Hiatal hernias are rated separately under Diagnostic Code 7346, with ratings based on symptoms like:

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
Severe acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Treatment requirements.

Compensation ranges from 0% to 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms and impact on the veteran’s quality of life.

Benefits

Hernias can be caused by or lead to other service-connected conditions, such as GERD or complications from prior surgeries. Veterans may qualify for additional benefits by establishing a connection between their hernia and these secondary conditions.

TDIU Benefits

For veterans unable to work due to a hernia or related conditions, Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefits may be an option. TDIU compensates veterans at the 100% disability rate, even if their hernia rating alone is less than 100%.

File a Claim

If you believe your hernia is related to your military service, follow these steps:

Seek Medical Evidence: Obtain medical documentation showing the diagnosis, severity, and potential service connection of your hernia.
Document Secondary Conditions: Include any related conditions, such as GERD, in your claim.
Submit Your Claim: File your claim through the VA with all supporting documentation.

The right approach, supported by strong medical evidence, can help you secure the compensation you deserve to manage your condition and maintain your quality of life.