VA Disability Ratings for Urinary Incontinence: A Comprehensive Guide

Incontinence is a challenging condition that affects many veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes this issue and provides disability ratings to support those who developed incontinence due to their military service. This article will explore how the VA rates incontinence and what veterans need to know about the process.

Incontinence can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, affecting both physical and emotional well-being. For veterans, it’s crucial to understand how the VA evaluates this condition to ensure they receive appropriate compensation and support.

Types of Incontinence Recognized by the VA

The VA recognizes several types of incontinence when determining disability ratings. These include:

1. Urinary incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine
2. Fecal incontinence: Inability to control bowel movements
3. Stress incontinence: Leakage during physical activities or when coughing, sneezing, or laughing
4. Urge incontinence: Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine

Each type of incontinence is evaluated differently, and the severity of symptoms plays a crucial role in determining the disability rating.

How the VA Rates Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is typically rated under 38 CFR § 4.115a, which outlines the criteria for genitourinary system dysfunctions. The VA uses a scale from 0% to 60% to rate urinary incontinence, based on the severity and frequency of symptoms.

• 0%: No leakage or very mild symptoms that don’t require absorbent materials
• 20%: Requires wearing absorbent materials that must be changed less than two times per day
• 40%: Requires wearing absorbent materials that must be changed two to four times per day
• 60%: Requires use of an appliance or wearing absorbent materials that must be changed more than four times per day

It’s important to note that the VA considers the impact on daily life when assigning these ratings. Veterans should provide detailed information about how incontinence affects their ability to work and perform daily activities.

Fecal Incontinence VA Rating Criteria

Fecal incontinence is rated under 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7332. The VA uses a scale from 0% to 100% to rate this condition:

• 0%: Healed or slight symptoms without leakage
• 10%: Constant slight or occasional moderate leakage
• 30%: Occasional involuntary bowel movements, necessitating wearing of pad
• 60%: Extensive leakage and fairly frequent involuntary bowel movements
• 100%: Complete loss of sphincter control

As with urinary incontinence, the VA considers how fecal incontinence impacts a veteran’s daily life and ability to work when assigning ratings.

Secondary Service Connection for Incontinence

In some cases, incontinence may be a secondary condition resulting from another service-connected disability. For example, a veteran with a spinal cord injury might develop incontinence as a result of nerve damage. In such cases, veterans can claim incontinence as a secondary service-connected condition.

To establish a secondary service connection, veterans need to provide medical evidence linking their incontinence to their primary service-connected condition. This may require a medical opinion from a healthcare provider.

Documenting Incontinence for VA Rating Purposes

When filing a claim for incontinence, it’s crucial to provide thorough documentation. This includes:

1. Medical records detailing diagnosis and treatment
2. Statements from healthcare providers about the severity and frequency of symptoms
3. Personal statements describing how incontinence affects daily life and work
4. Buddy statements from family members or colleagues who can attest to the impact of the condition

The more comprehensive the documentation, the better chance veterans have of receiving an accurate rating.

Appealing an Incontinence VA Rating Decision

If a veteran disagrees with the VA’s rating decision for their incontinence claim, they have the right to appeal. The appeals process includes several steps:

1. Filing a Notice of Disagreement
2. Requesting a Higher-Level Review
3. Submitting new and relevant evidence
4. Appealing to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals

It’s often helpful to work with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or an accredited attorney when navigating the appeals process.

Treatment Options and VA Support for Incontinence

While pursuing a disability rating, veterans should also explore treatment options for incontinence. The VA provides various treatments and support services, including:

• Medications to control bladder or bowel function
• Pelvic floor exercises and physical therapy
• Behavioral techniques and lifestyle changes
• Surgical interventions in severe cases

The VA also offers resources such as support groups and counseling to help veterans cope with the emotional aspects of living with incontinence.

Impact of Incontinence on Total Disability Rating

In some cases, severe incontinence can contribute to a Total Disability Rating based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU). This rating is assigned when a veteran is unable to maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities.

If incontinence, alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions, prevents a veteran from working, they may be eligible for TDIU. This would provide compensation at the 100% rate, even if their combined schedular rating is less than 100%.

Keeping Your VA Rating Updated

Incontinence symptoms can change over time, either improving or worsening. Veterans should regularly update the VA on their condition, especially if symptoms worsen. This may involve:

1. Attending regular VA medical appointments
2. Keeping a symptom journal to track changes
3. Filing for an increased rating if symptoms worsen

Staying proactive about reporting changes can help ensure that veterans receive the most accurate rating and appropriate compensation for their condition.

Resources for Veterans with Incontinence

Several resources are available to veterans dealing with incontinence:

• VA healthcare system for medical treatment and support
• Veterans Service Organizations for assistance with claims and appeals
• Support groups for connecting with others facing similar challenges
• Online resources and educational materials about managing incontinence

By utilizing these resources, veterans can better manage their condition and navigate the VA disability rating process.

Understanding the VA’s rating system for incontinence is crucial for veterans seeking appropriate compensation and support. By providing thorough documentation, exploring treatment options, and staying informed about their rights, veterans can ensure they receive the care and benefits they deserve for this challenging condition.

Check out our quiz at Benefits.com to find out your eligibility status and begin application today for VA disability benefits.