The VA Disability Ratings for Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease is a common condition that affects many veterans. It occurs when fat builds up in the liver cells, potentially leading to inflammation and liver damage. For veterans, understanding how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rates fatty liver disease is crucial in receiving needed disability benefits.

The VA doesn’t have a specific rating for fatty liver disease itself. Instead, they evaluate it based on its symptoms and impact on overall health. This can make the rating process complex, as fatty liver often accompanies other conditions that may be service-connected.

Veterans should know that fatty liver disease can be caused by various factors, including alcohol use, obesity, and certain medications. The VA will consider these factors when determining if the condition is service-connected and how to rate its severity.

How the VA Evaluates Fatty Liver Disease

When a veteran files a disability claim for fatty liver disease, the VA looks at several factors to determine eligibility and rating. They consider the veteran’s service records, medical history, and current symptoms.

The VA often rates fatty liver disease under the broader category of liver conditions. They use diagnostic codes in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities to assign a percentage based on the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life.

Typically, the VA will look for evidence of liver dysfunction, such as:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Weight loss
• Right upper quadrant pain
• Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver)
• Elevated liver enzymes

The more severe and frequent these symptoms are, the higher the potential rating. Veterans should provide detailed medical records and personal statements to support their claims.

Common VA Ratings for Liver Issues

While there’s no specific rating for fatty liver disease, the VA often uses diagnostic code 7345 for chronic liver disease without cirrhosis. Ratings under this code can range from 0% to 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms.

A 0% rating might be given if fatty liver disease is diagnosed but doesn’t cause significant symptoms or require continuous medication. This rating doesn’t provide compensation but recognizes the condition as service-connected.

Higher ratings are assigned based on the frequency and severity of symptoms:

• 10% rating: Intermittent fatigue, malaise, and anorexia, or incapacitating episodes lasting at least one week but less than two weeks total per year.
• 20% rating: Daily fatigue, malaise, and anorexia (without weight loss and hepatomegaly), requiring dietary restriction or continuous medication, or incapacitating episodes lasting at least two weeks but less than four weeks total per year.
• 40% rating: Daily fatigue, malaise, and anorexia, with minor weight loss and hepatomegaly, or incapacitating episodes lasting at least four weeks but less than six weeks total per year.

Higher ratings of 60% and 100% are reserved for more severe cases with significant symptoms and complications.

Documenting Fatty Liver Symptoms for VA Claims

When filing a claim for fatty liver disease, thorough documentation is key. Veterans should gather all relevant medical records, including:

• Diagnosis of fatty liver disease
• Results of liver function tests
• Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI)
• Records of any hospitalizations or treatments related to liver problems
• Statements from doctors about the condition’s severity and impact on daily life

It’s also helpful to keep a symptom journal, noting the frequency and severity of symptoms like fatigue, pain, and any incapacitating episodes. This can provide valuable evidence for the VA to consider when assigning a rating.

Secondary Service Connection for Fatty Liver Disease

In some cases, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease may be secondary to another service-connected condition. For example, if a veteran has service-connected diabetes or obesity that led to fatty liver disease, they may be eligible for secondary service connection.

To establish secondary service connection, veterans need to show:

1. They have a current diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
2. They have a service-connected primary condition
3. Medical evidence linking the primary condition to the development of liver issues

This approach can be particularly useful for veterans who didn’t develop fatty liver disease during active service but can trace its onset to a service-connected condition.

Challenging a Fatty Liver VA Rating

If a veteran disagrees with their VA rating for fatty liver disease, they have the right to appeal. The appeals process allows veterans to present additional evidence and argue for a higher rating.

Steps in the appeals process may include:

1. Filing a Notice of Disagreement
2. Requesting a higher-level review
3. Submitting new and relevant evidence
4. Requesting a hearing with a Decision Review Officer

It’s often helpful to work with a Veterans Service Organization or an accredited attorney during the appeals process. They can provide guidance on gathering strong evidence and presenting a compelling case for a higher rating.

Lifestyle Changes and Treatment for Fatty Liver Disease

While pursuing a VA rating, veterans should also focus on managing their condition. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes with health benefits that can improve liver function and overall well-being:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Managing diabetes and high cholesterol
• Avoiding unnecessary medications that may stress the liver

In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help manage related conditions or recommend vitamin E supplements. Regular monitoring of liver function is crucial to track the progression of the disease.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups

Veterans with fatty liver disease should have regular check-ups with their healthcare providers. These appointments are important for:

• Monitoring liver function
• Adjusting treatment plans as needed
• Documenting the progression of the condition for VA rating purposes

Keeping detailed records of these visits can strengthen a veteran’s case if they need to file for an increased rating in the future.

Resources for Veterans with Fatty Liver Disease

Veterans dealing with fatty liver have several resources available to them:

• VA healthcare system for medical treatment and management
• Veterans Service Organizations for assistance with claims and appeals
• Support groups for individuals with liver conditions
• Educational materials from organizations like the American Liver Foundation

Taking advantage of these resources can help veterans better manage their condition and navigate the VA rating system more effectively.

AllVeteran is Here to Help You

Fatty liver disease can be a challenging condition for veterans, both in terms of health management and securing appropriate VA benefits. By understanding the VA rating process, gathering thorough documentation, and pursuing appropriate treatment, veterans can work towards receiving fair compensation for their condition.

Remember that VA ratings can be adjusted over time if the condition worsens. Veterans should stay proactive about their health care and keep the VA informed of any significant changes in their fatty liver condition. With persistence and proper documentation, veterans can ensure they receive the support and disability benefits they deserve for their service-connected fatty liver disease.

Jumpstart your journey to benefits today by taking our free medical evidence screening at AllVeteran.com. We’re here to help!