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Denied

The Veteran's sleep apnea, allergic rhinitis, and GERD with sliding hiatal hernia were not rated higher than the current disability ratings due to lack of evidence supporting more severe manifestations.

The deciding factor: The medical evidence did not show chronic respiratory failure or cor pulmonale for sleep apnea; no polyps or greater than 50 percent obstruction of nasal passages for allergic rhinitis; and, no symptoms warranting a higher rating for GERD with sliding hiatal hernia.

Claimed conditions
Sleep Apnea, Allergic Rhinitis, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) with sliding hiatal hernia
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
50%
Decision date
December 11, 2020
Citation
20078490

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 20078490.

What this means for you

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