Gulf War illness / chronic multisymptom decisions — 2005

The veteran's claim for service connection for a skin disability, including as due to undiagnosed illness, is being remanded for further development and consideration.

The Board has determined that the veteran does not have hypertension, headaches, or bleeding gums as a result of service. The evidence does not support a finding of service connection for these conditions.

The veteran's claim for an increased rating for his service-connected low back disability was denied. The RO found that the disability did not meet criteria for a higher evaluation.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for anxiety disorder, increased ratings for fatigue and shortness of breath due to undiagnosed illnesses, and an increased rating for tinea pedis. The appeal was not about service connection at all.

The veteran's PTSD is rated at the highest possible rating of 70 percent, and his left wrist fracture residuals are not entitled to a higher rating. Service connection for carotidynia, low back disorder, variously diagnosed respiratory disorders (including as due to an undiagnosed illness), peripheral neuropathy of the upper extremities, and left upper extremity tremor is granted.

The veteran's claims for service connection and increased evaluations are being remanded due to the need for additional examinations, clarification of laws and regulations, and issuance of a Statement of the Case.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including obtaining medical records and verifying stressors.