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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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