Greetings all. This is my first post, I'm so glad I found this site with so much helpful information. So here goes:
After coming back from Desert Storm, I started having digestive issues. Since I've done two more tours in Iraq, it's become very difficult. I filed a claim last year, and was told by the examiner that the bowel problems were caused by taking too many Tums antacids, and my claim was denied. I told my personal physician what the doctor said and he said he couldn't be more wrong. My doctor sent me for colonoscopy, came back negative, and the term escapes me, but they basically put a camera down your throat. They could see irritation from the acid reflux.
I recently received a va newsletter, where they have stated that Irritable bowel syndrome is on the list of being presumed service connected if you served when and where I was located.
I went to the state VA service officer and she filed for IBS again. (I didn't appeal the first decision, I have just about given up on VA)
How do I get another exam? Will this happen since I filed again? My personal doctor has diagnosed me with IBS. I've even gone so far as to take pictures of my stools with my cell phone and downloaded them to my computer. They are all time stamped, so they can see that this is a daily issue. Does anyone have any suggestions on what else I could do?
Thank you so very much for your time. Sorry it's so long winded, my brain just doesn't work like it used to.
Brad Doyle
Fairview Heights, IL