To file for Acid Reflux, we will also need you to complete a statement describing how you believe this condition was caused by your time in the service and how it affects you to this day. How do you believe your Acid Reflux was caused by your time in service? Please use the prompts below to best determine how you believe your Acid Reflux is service-connected, then fill out the appropriate statement form. If you believe your condition was caused by multiple factors below, please select the factor that outweighs the rest, and then be sure to mention all applicable service connected reasoning within your statement.

Exposure to environmental hazards: Military personnel may be exposed to environmental hazards, such as smoke, dust, and fumes, that can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause acid reflux. Please click the link below if you feel this was the cause of your Acid Reflux.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/presumptions

Physical stress: Physical stress, such as heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity, can put pressure on the stomach and increase the likelihood of acid reflux. Please click the link below if you feel this was the cause of your Acid Reflux.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/directchronicity

Dietary factors: Military personnel may have limited access to healthy food options while on deployment, which can lead to a diet high in acidic foods, such as fried or spicy foods, that can trigger acid reflux. Please click the link below if you feel this was the cause of your Acid Reflux.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/directchronicity

Medications: Certain medications commonly used during military service, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics, can cause or aggravate acid reflux. Please click the link below if you feel this was the cause of your Acid Reflux. Because you already have service-connected conditions, if you take medication for those conditions that you believe have led to your Acid Reflux, then your Acid Reflux may be considered secondary to your service-connected conditions medications. https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/secondaryserviceconnection

Psychological stress: The stress of military service, including combat exposure and separation from loved ones, can lead to increased levels of anxiety and stress, which can contribute to the development or aggravation of acid reflux. Please click the link below if you feel this was the cause of your Acid Reflux. Because you are already service-connected for a mental health condition, Acid Reflux may be considered secondary to your Mental Health.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/secondaryserviceconnection