Veterans’ RightsAn independent resource for veterans
← All decisions
Denied

The veteran's claims for service connection and increased ratings were denied. Service connection was not granted for sleep apnea, but Crohn's disease, mitral valve prolapse, and tension headaches were each rated at the maximum allowable under VA regulations.

The deciding factor: The evidence did not support a finding of current disability or a link to service for sleep apnea. The veteran's symptoms related to Crohn's disease were well controlled with medication and did not meet criteria for higher ratings. His mitral valve prolapse was stable, but his headaches did not meet the criteria for a compensable rating.

Claimed conditions
Sleep apnea, Crohn's disease, Mitral valve prolapse, Tension headaches
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
October 22, 2002
Citation
0214821

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0214821.

What this means for you

A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.

What you can do next

Related decisions

Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.

Free starter guide for your own claim

Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.

We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.

We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.

This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.