Sleep apnea decisions — 2013

The Veteran's appeal has been withdrawn, and his case is dismissed.

The Veteran's PTSD was granted a higher initial rating of 70 percent effective November 5, 2009. The other issues were either denied or not addressed in the decision.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for a sleep disorder, including obstructive sleep apnea, is being remanded due to the need for additional medical examination and development.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's back disability, encompassing the thoracic and lumbosacral spinal segments, was not incurred in or aggravated by service. The claim is denied.

The Board has granted the Veteran's claims for service connection for a left elbow disorder and an evaluation in excess of 60 percent disabling for lumbosacral strain status post laminectomy and discectomy.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's obstructive sleep apnea was not incurred in or aggravated by active service and is not related to a service-connected disability. The claim for secondary service connection due to PTSD is also denied.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities have resulted in the loss of use of his feet, warranting eligibility for automobile and adaptive equipment.

The Veteran's sleep apnea claim was not granted, but his PTSD was granted with an increased rating to 70 percent effective April 19, 2010. The decision is mixed as some issues were granted and others denied.