Can Gallbladder Removal Qualify for Military Exemption?

Q: Can Gallbladder Removal Qualify for Military Exemption?

Hello： Your boyfriend's symptoms may be attributed to "post-cholecystectomy syndrome," but I cannot confirm whether it falls under the category of exemptions. <br>Generally, it is advisable to avoid oily and sugary foods, as emotional stress can also have an impact. <br>If there

Is it possible to be exempt from military service after gallbladder removal?

Hello Dr.
Yang, I would like to inquire about a military service issue.
My boyfriend underwent a cholecystectomy due to acute cholecystitis in Taoyuan six to seven years ago and spent over a month in the intensive care unit.
After discharge, he continued to take medication, but his bowel movements did not improve.
In recent years, without medication, his diarrhea has gradually decreased from four to five times a day to three to four times.
He has been in the military for five months now and has applied for an exemption from service, but the doctors at the military hospital have stated that "diarrhea is not considered a specified sequela." I have also checked the relevant regulations, which only mention that there must be a so-called "sequela" related to gallbladder disease for an exemption, but do not specify what the exact sequelae are.
The doctors at the military hospital seem reluctant to issue a certificate due to the hassle.
I would like to ask Dr.
Yang, does having to frequently use the restroom not count as a sequela? It pains me to see my boyfriend taking dozens of pills prescribed by the doctor every day and struggling to serve in the military.
Even with all this medication, he still occasionally loses control, especially when the food in the military is a bit greasy.
I am really worried that by the time his service is over, his liver and kidneys will be affected.
He had an ultrasound in 804 that confirmed he no longer has a gallbladder, and stool tests showed normal enzyme levels.
Could this be related to not having an adequate drug withdrawal period? I appreciate your help and would like to know what I should do.

Ms. Zhang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/03/24

Dr. Yang Peizhen reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Your boyfriend's symptoms may be attributed to "post-cholecystectomy syndrome," but I cannot confirm whether it falls under the category of exemptions.
Generally, it is advisable to avoid oily and sugary foods, as emotional stress can also have an impact.
If there is indeed an issue with small intestine absorption, weight loss will gradually occur.
Typically, the gastrointestinal medications prescribed by doctors should not affect liver or kidney function, but they can alleviate symptoms, so it is recommended to continue taking some gastrointestinal regulating medications.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Yang Pei-Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/03/24

More Info

Gallbladder removal, or cholecystectomy, can indeed have implications for military service, particularly if the individual experiences ongoing symptoms or complications as a result of the surgery. In your boyfriend's case, the history of acute cholecystitis leading to gallbladder removal, along with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms such as frequent diarrhea, raises valid concerns regarding his ability to fulfill military duties effectively.

In the context of military exemption criteria, the definition of "aftereffects" or "sequelae" from gallbladder removal is not always clearly outlined in regulations. Typically, military medical boards assess whether the symptoms significantly impair an individual's ability to perform their duties. In your boyfriend's situation, the ongoing gastrointestinal issues, particularly the frequency of bowel movements, could be considered a significant impairment, especially in a military setting where access to facilities may be limited and the demands of physical training can exacerbate such conditions.

The military medical evaluation process often requires clear documentation of the medical condition and its impact on the individual’s daily life and military performance. If the military doctors are not recognizing the diarrhea as a relevant aftereffect of gallbladder removal, it may be beneficial to gather more comprehensive medical documentation. This could include:
1. Gastroenterology Consultation: A specialist can provide a thorough evaluation of your boyfriend's symptoms and may be able to establish a direct link between his gallbladder removal and his current gastrointestinal issues. This documentation can be crucial in supporting his case for exemption.

2. Medical Records: Collect all relevant medical records, including the surgical report from the cholecystectomy, any follow-up visits, and tests that have been conducted since the surgery. This can help establish a timeline of symptoms and their severity.

3. Symptom Diary: Keeping a detailed diary of symptoms, including frequency and severity of diarrhea, any dietary triggers, and how these symptoms affect daily functioning and military duties, can provide compelling evidence of the impact of his condition.

4. Request for a Second Opinion: If the military doctors are dismissive of his symptoms, seeking a second opinion from a civilian physician who specializes in gastrointestinal disorders may provide additional support for his case.

5. Formal Appeal: If the military continues to deny the exemption despite clear medical evidence, there may be a formal appeal process available. This process can vary by country and military branch, so it’s important to understand the specific procedures involved.

It’s important to advocate for your boyfriend’s health and well-being. The military environment can be demanding, and if his condition significantly affects his quality of life or ability to serve, it is reasonable to pursue an exemption. The goal is to ensure that he receives the appropriate care and support while also fulfilling his obligations to the military.
In summary, while gallbladder removal itself may not automatically qualify for military exemption, the ongoing symptoms and their impact on daily life can certainly be grounds for consideration. Gathering comprehensive medical evidence and advocating for his health will be key steps in this process.

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