Sinusitis decisions — 2013

The VA determined that the Veteran's respiratory disorder, specifically allergic rhinitis/sinusitis, was not incurred in service and is not related to exposure to Agent Orange. The condition is considered a direct result of aging and changes in allergens.

The Veteran's initial ratings for adjustment disorder, sinusitis, and hypertension have been denied as her conditions do not meet the criteria for higher ratings under applicable rating criteria.

The Veteran's chronic sinusitis has been characterized by headaches, pain and tenderness of the sinus, and purulent discharge after repeated surgeries. The RO granted service connection for his condition but assigned varying disability ratings based on the severity of his symptoms.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for COPD, sinusitis with allergic rhinitis, and radiculopathy of the right lower extremity have been granted effective June 6, 2012.

The Veteran's claims for higher initial ratings and service connection were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not support a rating in excess of 10 percent for chronic sinusitis or a compensable rating for residuals of a fractured nasal bone.

The Veteran's service-connected allergic rhinitis has not shown to be manifested by a greater than 50 percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides or complete obstruction on one side, nor has it been shown to be manifested by polyps. Therefore, the criteria for a compensable rating have not been met.

The Veteran's claims for increased rating of PTSD, service connection for headaches and sinusitis are being remanded due to the need for additional development including obtaining VA treatment records, conducting examinations, and providing proper notice.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection were denied. His chronic sinusitis was not found to warrant a higher rating, and his right ear and eye disabilities, as well as his acquired psychiatric disorder, were not found to be related to service or service-connected conditions.

The Board has determined that the Veteran does not have current sinusitis or rhinitis, and there is no evidence of a nexus between his service and these conditions. The claims are therefore denied.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded due to insufficient evidence regarding the nature and etiology of his claimed chronic sinusitis and plantar warts, necessitating further examination.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for sinusitis was denied as there is no evidence of a current diagnosis or in-service occurrence.

The Board has granted service connection for hepatitis C, chronic sinusitis, and chronic rhinitis based on direct evidence of in-service disease or injury. The Veteran's MOS included exposure to asbestos, dust, and toxic fumes during his active duty service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's allergic rhinitis and chronic maxillary and bilateral ethmoid sinusitis are secondary to his service-connected nasal fracture, post-operative septorhinoplasty, and rhinoplasty. The decision is granted.

The Board denied an increased rating for sinusitis, finding that the Veteran's chronic sinusitis did not meet the criteria for a higher disability rating under Diagnostic Code 6513.

The Board finds that the overpayment of VA compensation benefits in the amount of $3,319.84 was properly created and is a valid debt.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for an upper respiratory disorder, to include sinusitis, and increased ratings for his bilateral knee disabilities were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not support a finding of service connection or entitlement to higher disability ratings.

The Veteran's sinusitis is granted as service-connected, with the condition being proximately due to his service-connected allergic rhinitis.

The Board found no evidence of a current diagnosis of sinusitis and denied the Veteran's claim for service connection.

The Board has remanded the case due to inadequate opinions regarding service connection for a sinus disorder, and the Veteran's symptoms in-service and post-service.

The Veteran's claim for a rating in excess of 10 percent for residuals of rib fractures was denied. The RO found that the manifestations did not meet criteria for a higher rating.