To file for Ulcerative Colitis, we need you to answer a few questions to link this condition to your military service and explain how your symptoms affect you today. ****

How do you believe your Ulcerative Colitis was caused by your time in service?

Please use the prompts below to best determine how you believe your Ulcerative Colitis 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.

Toxic Exposure - some studies have suggested a potential link between exposure to certain environmental factors, such as chemicals or infections, and an increased risk of developing the disease. If you believe your Ulcerative Colitis was caused by toxic exposure, please click this link to complete your statement.

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

Direct & Chronicity - Diet can play a role in triggering or exacerbating symptoms of the disease. Certain types of food can irritate the digestive tract and contribute to inflammation, which can worsen symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Research has also shown that stress and other psychological factors can affect the functioning of the immune system and increase inflammation in the body, which can worsen symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Additionally, the demands of military service, such as long deployments, exposure to combat, and prolonged periods of physical activity, can be stressful and contribute to the development or worsening of ulcerative colitis. If you believe your Ulcerative Colitis was caused by a direct cause from the military or chronicity of your duties and demands, please click this link to complete your statement. https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/directchronicity

Secondary to other service-connected conditions - Certain medications can contribute to the development or exacerbation of symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Some medications that have been linked to ulcerative colitis include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - for chronic pain (ortho conditions)
• Antibiotics - infections, diverticulitis
• Oral contraceptives - PCOS, acne
• Accutane - severe acne, skin disorders
• Immunosuppressants - MS, asthma

If you believe your Ulcerative Colitis was caused by medication that you are currently taking for other service-connected conditions, please click this link to complete your statement.

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

Current Symptoms - Since the VA will make a decision on your claim largely based on the information in this form, being accurate and understanding the rating criteria will help you maximize your chances of earning a higher VA rating for ulcerative colitis. When discussing your current symptoms, be sure to focus on the following: