Secondary Service Connection

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as Secondary to Anxiety/Depression

December 7, 2025

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Early-2000s Air Force veteran • Generalised Anxiety disorder with depressive features • Stress-triggered IBS

The Challenge

Service treatment records do not any complaints or diagnosis related to IBS. The evidence does not demonstrate that gastrointestinal symptoms are secondary to your service-connected anxiety/depression. No medical relationship was established.

What Existed Before

IBS diagnosis
SC anxiety/depression
Notes showing symptom flares during MH episodes

Our Contribution

Review of symptom fluctuations tied to stress and mental health episodes
Identification of GI patterns consistent with secondary aggravation
Chronological mapping of mental health treatment and IBS progression
Structured secondary-service-connection explanation using existing evidence

Key Takeaway

Following submission of the new opinion, the veteran later received a favorable decision granting service connection for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). We supported the claim with medical rationale - NEXUS Letter. VA made the final decision.

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Content Standards

Written By

Military Disability Nexus Editorial Team

Educational Guidance and Evidence Research

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Reviewed For Clinical Accuracy

Military Disability Nexus Clinical Review Team

Clinical Integrity and Accuracy Review

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Originally published December 7, 2025 • Last updated July 15, 2026

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About this case study: This case study is general educational and medical information published by the Military Disability Nexus clinical team. It is not legal advice, not individualized medical advice, and not a substitute for a personal evaluation by a licensed clinician or a consultation with an accredited representative. Reading it does not create a doctor-patient or attorney-client relationship. VA law and rating criteria change; some details may not reflect the most recent updates, and every claim is decided by the VA on its own facts – no outcome is promised or guaranteed. Military Disability Nexus is an independent medical-evidence provider and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. Free claims assistance is available from VA-accredited Veterans Service Organizations and county Veterans Service Officers; you can verify any representative's accreditation through the VA Office of General Counsel.