Hypertension (high blood pressure) decisions — 2003

The Board has ordered further development due to the need for additional evidence and clarification. The case is now being sent back to the RO for development, including a review of the veteran's medical records by an appropriate specialist.

The Board has ordered further development due to pending issues regarding service connection for bilateral hearing loss, hypertension, and nonspecific dermatitis. The case is now remanded for additional medical examinations and consideration.

The veteran's hypertension has been rated at the 10 percent level since July 1, 1996. The Board found that the amended criteria under Diagnostic Code 7101 are more favorable to the veteran and considered the claim under both the old and new criteria. However, the evidence does not meet the criteria for a higher rating.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection of hypertension and bursitis sacs as secondary to her service-connected varicose veins with thrombophlebitis. The decision also noted that new evidence submitted did not meet the criteria for reopening a claim.

The Board has determined that additional development is required for the veteran's claims, including obtaining VA medical examinations and ensuring compliance with the Veterans Claims Assistance Act of 2000 (VCAA).

The veteran's service-connected conditions do not render him unemployable, as his disabilities are rated at least 60% combined and he has been deemed capable of sedentary work.

The Board has granted service connection for hypertension as secondary to the service-connected diabetes mellitus disability and increased evaluation of PTSD from 30% to 50%. The effective date remains pending.

The Board has granted service connection for depression as secondary to service-connected PTSD, and the veteran's claims for increased ratings for hypertension and pes planus with bilateral foot strain have been granted. The remaining issues on appeal are addressed in the decision summary.

The veteran has been granted a 60 percent rating for coronary artery disease post myocardial infarction effective from April 30, 2002.,A separate 10 percent rating for hypertension was assigned effective from January 12, 1998.

The veteran's appeal of the reduction in his hypertension evaluation is dismissed, and the issue of service connection for arthritis remains before the Board.

The Board has determined that the veteran's current diagnosis of congestive heart failure and hypertension is linked to service, warranting service connection.

The Board has ordered further development due to pending issues and evidence. The case is now being sent back for additional development.

The Board found that there is no evidence of a nexus between the veteran's current hypertension and his period of service, thus denying the claim for service connection.

The Board has ordered further development in the veteran's case due to incomplete service medical records and requests for additional evidence. The appeal is currently remanded for these purposes.

The veteran's service-connected end stage renal disease with arterial hypertension is permanently and totally disabling, but he does not meet the criteria for special monthly compensation based on need for aid and attendance or being housebound. However, his eligibility for Dependents' Educational Assistance under Chapter 35 of Title 38, United States Code, is granted.

The Board has reopened the veteran's claim for service connection for hypertension and cardiomegaly, finding that new and material evidence has been submitted. The case is now remanded to determine if service connection can be granted.

The Board found that the veteran's current hypertension is related to his service and granted service connection for this condition.

The Board has determined that the veteran's hypertension was incurred in service and granted his claim for service connection.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development due to VCAA compliance issues.

The Board has granted a rating of 20 percent for hypertension, effective from the date of service connection in June 1998. The veteran's blood pressure readings have consistently shown diastolic pressures predominantly at or above 110, meeting the criteria for a 20 percent evaluation under Diagnostic Code 7101.