WingmanOpen the free toolsWingmanOpen the free toolsIf the VA already service-connected your hemorrhoids (also called hemorrhoids, piles, rectal bleeding, anal fissure), it can cause or worsen other conditions that are ratable on their own. These "secondary" claims are where many veterans leave money on the table. Below is what a service-connected hemorrhoids commonly leads to, why, and what evidence each one takes.
A secondary claim only works if the primary condition (hemorrhoids) is already service-connected, and you have a nexus — a doctor's opinion that it is "at least as likely as not" the cause. More on nexus letters →
Chronic bleeding from severe hemorrhoids can lead to iron-deficiency anemia in some veterans, which is separately ratable.
What you'd need: A complete blood count showing anemia and records tying the blood loss to the hemorrhoids.
Persistent hemorrhoid disease can accompany fissures or impaired sphincter control, which are rated separately.
What you'd need: Colorectal/GI records documenting the condition.