Migraines & headaches decisions — 2026

The Veteran's initial compensable rating for migraine (claimed as headaches) is being remanded due to a duty-to-assist error in the original decision.

The Veteran withdrew his appeals for all issues related to service connection, including GERD, chronic sinusitis, left ankle condition, right ankle condition, neck condition, TBI, and migraine variants. The appeal is dismissed as a result.

The Veteran's service-connected thoracic kyphosis and associated conditions have required regular aid and attendance, warranting SMC based on the need for aid and attendance.

The claims of service connection for intracranial lipomas and tinnitus, as well as the initial compensable disability ratings for left knee chondromalacia patella and right ear hearing loss, are dismissed due to untimely notices of disagreement. The claim of compensation for burn pit exposure is dismissed because it was not a specific disability but rather an indication that more information was needed.

The Veteran's chronic migraine headaches are found to be related to his service in the Persian Gulf War, and thus service connection is granted.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for a headache disability is granted. The Board has remanded the Veteran's claim for service connection for sleep apnea due to a pre-decisional duty to assist error.

The Veteran's headaches are rated at a 30 percent disability rating since May 29, 2020.,The Veteran's sinusitis is rated at a 30 percent disability rating since May 29, 2020.

The Veteran's claim for a higher evaluation of her service-connected migraine headaches was granted, and she is now entitled to a 50 percent rating.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded for further examination and evaluation regarding service connection claims for hypertension, migraine disorder, right hip degenerative arthritis, left hip degenerative arthritis, and bilateral knee disorders.

The Veteran's migraine headaches are rated at a maximum of 50 percent, effective April 1, 2024. The Board found that the Veteran's very frequent and prolonged attacks meet the criteria for this rating.

The Board has found that new and relevant evidence was received, but the AOJ denied the claim based on the evidence of record at the time. The Veteran's appeal is remanded to obtain an adequate VA opinion regarding the etiology of her migraine headaches.

Service connection for OSA is granted. The appeal pertaining to the issue of entitlement to an initial rating in excess of 10 percent for tinnitus is dismissed. An initial compensable rating for hearing loss is denied. The remaining issues are remanded.

The Board has remanded the claims of service connection for headaches and a lumbar spine condition due to insufficient evidence regarding the Veteran's participation in toxic exposure risk activities during service.

The Board dismissed the Veteran's appeals for service connection on multiple conditions due to procedural issues, including a prohibited concurrent election of administrative review options.