Asthma decisions — 2020

The Board has remanded the case due to inadequate VA medical opinion regarding the nature and etiology of any respiratory disability shown during the appeal period, including exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

The Board has dismissed all claims due to the death of the Appellant, as appellants' claims do not survive their death.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for asthma and chronic sinusitis with headaches have been denied. The Veteran was not granted a rating in excess of the current 30 percent for his asthma, nor did he receive an initial compensable rating prior to October 19, 2016, or any subsequent rating above 50 percent thereafter.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for COPD, left knee condition, right eye retinal burn residuals, left eye retinal burn residuals, and bronchial asthma due to in-service exposure. The issues are now pending before the AOJ.

The Veteran's bronchial asthma is rated at a 60 percent disability rating, effective from the date of this decision. The Veteran's TDIU claim was denied as his service-connected condition does not render him unemployable.

The Veteran's bronchiolitis obliterans with exercise induced asthma is rated at 60 percent since November 10, 2009. The rating will remain at this level throughout the appeal period.

The Veteran's claims for PTSD, asthma, COPD, and right leg torn ACL are remanded due to the need for further examination and medical opinion.,The Veteran's applications to reopen his claims for service connection for left shoulder injury and depression are also remanded as new evidence may be relevant.,VA is required to provide an examination or obtain a medical opinion regarding the nature and etiology of the claimed psychiatric disabilities, including PTSD.

The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for asthma and sleep apnea due to incomplete verification of the Veteran's service records. The issues will be reconsidered after all available records are obtained.