Sinusitis decisions — 2015

The Board has determined that the Veteran does not have a current sleep disability, nasal fracture residuals, bilateral hearing loss disability, tinnitus, sinusitis, or stomach disability for which service connection can be granted.

The Veteran's appeal was denied as he does not have a current sinus disorder separate from his service-connected sinus surgery with nasal septum perforation. His PTSD is rated at the maximum available rating, and no higher initial ratings are warranted.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection for various conditions, including sinusitis, asthma, a deviated septum, nasal polyps, right eye polyps, depression, and a right eardrum rupture. The decision also addressed whether new and material evidence had been received to reopen the claim of service connection for headaches.

The Veteran's headaches were not found to be incurred in or aggravated by active military service. They are considered part and parcel of his already service-connected sinusitis with headaches, and thus secondary to that condition.

The Board found that the Veteran's sinusitis did not begin during her military service and is not otherwise caused by it, thus denying her claim for service connection.

The Veteran's claim for special monthly pension based on the need for aid and attendance or being housebound is REMANDED due to a lack of recent VA examination and treatment records, as well as potential need for additional rating assignments.

The Veteran's appeal for the reduction of evaluations for various service-connected conditions has been withdrawn.

The Veteran's sinusitis and rhinitis were rated at 30 percent prior to November 17, 2009, and the Board found this rating appropriate. Since then, a higher rating is not warranted.

The Veteran's death was not caused by any service-connected disability, and the appellant is therefore not entitled to VA benefits under 38 C.F.R. § 3.11.