Hearing loss decisions — 2005

The Board has remanded the case due to a lack of VCAA notice and for further development.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for hearing loss and an increased rating for his gunshot wound to the right great toe with traumatic arthritis and ankylosis, finding no evidence linking current conditions to service.

The veteran's claim for an earlier effective date for the grant of service connection for bilateral hearing loss is being remanded due to issues regarding clear and unmistakable error (CUE).

The Board found that the veteran's current bilateral hearing loss disability is not related to his service, as there was no evidence of in-service hearing loss or manifestations within one year following discharge. The VA audiologist determined that the hearing loss is more likely due to post-service noise exposure.

The RO has granted service connection for bilateral hearing loss but assigned a noncompensable rating. The veteran is seeking an initial compensable rating, and the appeal involves whether he should receive such a higher rating following the grant of service connection.

The veteran's claim for an earlier effective date for service connection for bilateral hearing loss is denied as there was no prior submission of a valid claim before May 15, 2003.

The Board denied service connection for bilateral hearing loss and pathology of the ears, finding no new and material evidence to reopen the claim for pathology of the ears. The veteran's hearing loss was not shown during service or within one year thereafter.

The Board has determined that the veteran's current bilateral hearing loss and low back disability are not related to his service, with the exception of a single incident in 1972 where he reportedly injured his back while falling off a wall. The Board found no evidence supporting a connection between these conditions and his military service.

The Board has remanded the veteran's claim for a VA examination to determine if his headaches are related to his service-connected shell fragment wound and hearing loss. The case will be readjudicated after the examination.

The veteran's claim for service connection for hearing loss of the left ear is being remanded due to the need for a VA audiological examination and additional development.

The Board found that the veteran's current bilateral hearing loss is not related to his military service and denied his claim for service connection.

The Board has determined that the veteran's current bilateral hearing loss is not related to his service, and thus denied his claim for service connection.