The Veteran's claims for increased ratings were denied. The residual scars previously scars, removal of swollen lymph nodes are not rated as compensable. The chronic headaches prior to January 24, 2020 and the relapse fever (previously fever, night sweats) prior to January 24, 2020 are each granted a 10 percent rating. The carpal tunnel syndrome of the right hand prior to January 24, 2020 is granted a 10 percent rating and the carpal tunnel syndrome of the left hand prior to January 24, 2020 is denied higher than a 10 percent rating. Multiple joint pain prior to January 24, 2020 is not rated as higher than 10 percent. The idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis prior to January 24, 2020 is also not rated as higher than 30 percent.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's service-connected conditions were evaluated based on the criteria provided in the rating schedule and the evidence of record did not meet the requirements for a compensable or higher rating under any applicable diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- Residual Scars Previously Scars, Removal of Swollen Lymph Nodes, Chronic Headaches, Relapse Fever (Previously Fever, Night Sweats), Carpal Tunnel Syndrome of the Right Hand, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome of the Left Hand, Multiple Joint Pain, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 25, 2021
- Citation
- 21003893
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 21003893.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for a compensable disability rating for chronic headaches is remanded due to the need for a new medical examination to assess the frequency and severity of his headaches, including without medication.
- Granted
The Veteran's chronic headaches have been rated at 30 percent since June 24, 2019. The Board has now granted a 50 percent rating effective January 6, 2020.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran's death was caused by his service-connected idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which contributed to his susceptibility to pneumonia and COVID-19. As a result, the appeal for service connection for cause of death is granted.
- Denied
The Veteran's PTSD, chronic headaches, and unspecified dyspnea are rated at 50 percent, non-compensable, respectively. The appeals for higher ratings have been denied.
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