GERD (acid reflux) decisions — 2019

The Veteran's TMJ with disc displacement of the left side of the jaw was rated at 10 percent, and denied an increased rating.,Service connection for a vascular nerve injury of the left hand, peripheral neuropathy of the upper and extremities, low back disability, GERD, right hip disability, right shoulder disability, left shoulder disability, sleep disorder, bilateral shin disability, left knee disability, and right knee disability were all denied.

The Board has determined that additional development is required to properly adjudicate the Veteran's claims for service connection of left shoulder, bilateral knee, and bilateral ankle disabilities as well as GERD. The VA examinations were not conducted in accordance with the May 2018 Board remand directives.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for various conditions have been denied, and no effective date earlier than August 6, 2013 has been granted.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for joint pain, hypertension, sinus disability, and an acquired psychiatric disability are being remanded due to the need for additional development of his VA treatment records.

The Board has denied service connection for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and remanded the issues of service connection for a left wrist disorder and a bilateral hand disorder. The Veteran's current diagnoses have not been established, and further examination is needed to determine if any current conditions are related to his military service.

The Veteran's claim for special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance or housebound status is remanded due to a lack of examination focusing solely on her service-connected disabilities. She needs an opportunity to be examined by a VA clinician.

The Veteran's GERD symptoms are now rated at the highest possible rating of 60 percent, effective August 25, 2013. The right knee disability remains in a remanded status with no assigned rating.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for asthma and gastrointestinal disorder, other than IBS (including GERD and candidal esophagitis) have been denied. The Board found no current diagnosis of asthma or a link between the GI disorders and active service. The Veteran's claims for migraines, cervical strain, lumbar strain, and PTSD with alcohol use disorder are also denied.

The Board has determined that further development is needed to address the Veteran's claims for service connection for IBS, GERD, tubulovillous adenoma and benign duodenal polyp due to his Vietnam service. The claims are being remanded for VA examinations and opinions.