Giardiasis Residuals

DC 6302Infectious Diseases38 CFR 4.88b, DC 6302

Lasting digestive problems after a giardia infection from contaminated water. Some veterans have chronic bloating, diarrhea, and food sensitivities that continue long after the parasite is gone.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6302

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.88b, DC 6302. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have moderate lasting effects from giardiasis with chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, weight loss, or post-infectious IBS that limits your daily activities.

What the VA looks for

Chronic diarrhea or malabsorption syndrome
Weight loss from malabsorption
Lactose intolerance developed after infection
Post-infectious IBS diagnosis
Moderate impact on daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting the original giardia stool test results — the parasite is only detectable during active infection, so early lab results are essential evidence.
⚠Failing to document contaminated water exposure during service — field operations, deployment to areas with unsafe water, and training exercises all count.
⚠Not connecting new food intolerances to the giardia infection — post-giardia lactose intolerance and other food sensitivities are well-documented residuals.
⚠Assuming that because the parasite is gone, there is no claim — post-infectious functional bowel disorders can persist for years after treatment.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Infectious Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6302

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have moderate lasting effects from giardiasis with chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, weight loss, or post-infectious IBS that limits your daily activities.

What the VA looks for

Chronic diarrhea or malabsorption syndrome
Weight loss from malabsorption
Lactose intolerance developed after infection
Post-infectious IBS diagnosis
Moderate impact on daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting the original giardia stool test results — the parasite is only detectable during active infection, so early lab results are essential evidence.

⚠Failing to document contaminated water exposure during service — field operations, deployment to areas with unsafe water, and training exercises all count.

⚠Not connecting new food intolerances to the giardia infection — post-giardia lactose intolerance and other food sensitivities are well-documented residuals.

⚠Assuming that because the parasite is gone, there is no claim — post-infectious functional bowel disorders can persist for years after treatment.