Peptic Ulcer, Moderate

DC 7304Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7304

A sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or duodenum, causing burning abdominal pain, nausea, and potential bleeding. As of May 19, 2024, gastric and duodenal ulcers are all rated under DC 7304 based on how many episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting you have per year (each lasting at least three days and managed with daily medication), plus complications like bleeding, anemia, or surgery. For claims pending before May 19, 2024, the VA must apply whichever is more favorable: the new DC 7304 criteria or the old version.

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 7304

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7304. 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 are within three months after surgery for a perforated or hemorrhaging peptic ulcer. This is a temporary 100% rating for that three-month period, after which the ulcer is rated on its residuals.

What the VA looks for

Surgery for a perforated or hemorrhaging peptic ulcer
Operative and hospital records with dates
Rating applies for three months post-surgery, then rated on residuals

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting repeat endoscopy to document active or recurrent ulceration — the VA needs objective proof of the ulcer, not just symptoms.
⚠Not documenting each episode of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting lasting at least three consecutive days — the count of episodes per year and daily medication use set the 20% and 40% levels under DC 7304.
⚠Not reporting GI bleeding episodes — hematemesis or melena with anemia requiring hospitalization is the 60% criterion.
⚠Not connecting the ulcer to service — stress, NSAID use for service-connected musculoskeletal conditions, and H. pylori exposure during deployment are common nexus pathways.
⚠If your claim was pending before May 19, 2024, make sure the VA considers both the new DC 7304 criteria and the old version, and applies whichever is more favorable.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Stomach and Duodenal Conditions

See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Peptic Ulcer, Moderate or rated under the same body system.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

DC 7206·Digestive

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Hepatitis C

Crohn's Disease

Hemorrhoids

Ulcerative Colitis

Hiatal Hernia

Liver Cirrhosis

Condition Rating Guides

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Peptic Ulcer, Moderate

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7304

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You are within three months after surgery for a perforated or hemorrhaging peptic ulcer. This is a temporary 100% rating for that three-month period, after which the ulcer is rated on its residuals.

What the VA looks for

Surgery for a perforated or hemorrhaging peptic ulcer
Operative and hospital records with dates
Rating applies for three months post-surgery, then rated on residuals

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting repeat endoscopy to document active or recurrent ulceration — the VA needs objective proof of the ulcer, not just symptoms.

⚠Not documenting each episode of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting lasting at least three consecutive days — the count of episodes per year and daily medication use set the 20% and 40% levels under DC 7304.

⚠Not reporting GI bleeding episodes — hematemesis or melena with anemia requiring hospitalization is the 60% criterion.

⚠Not connecting the ulcer to service — stress, NSAID use for service-connected musculoskeletal conditions, and H. pylori exposure during deployment are common nexus pathways.

⚠If your claim was pending before May 19, 2024, make sure the VA considers both the new DC 7304 criteria and the old version, and applies whichever is more favorable.