The Veteran's service connection for tinnitus was granted, while his claims for sleep apnea and PTSD were denied. The rating reduction for hyperthyroidism from 60% to noncompensable was upheld, but the restoration of the prior rating is denied. Other issues related to back disability, knees, and PTSD are pending.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's tinnitus met the criteria for service connection due to its chronic nature post-service onset within one year after discharge. Sleep apnea was not diagnosed during or recent to the claim period. The reduction in hyperthyroidism rating from 60% to noncompensable was upheld as there was actual improvement, but restoration of the prior rating is denied.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"tinnitus","diagnosis_date":null,"current_status":"present"}, {"condition_name":"sleep apnea","diagnosis_date":null,"current_status":"not diagnosed"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- April 9, 2019
- Citation
- 19127455
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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