The Veteran's gastrointestinal disorder, including lactose intolerance, is not service connected as it did not begin during active service and is unrelated to an in-service injury or disease.,The Veteran's incontinence is considered secondary to his service-connected major depressive disorder (MDD).
The deciding factor: The VA examiner determined that the Veteran's lactose intolerance was not related to exposure to environmental hazards while stationed in Southwest Asia and did not have a connection with military service.,The February 2020 VA examination confirmed that the Veteran's incontinence is not due to an undiagnosed illness or MUCMI, but rather is linked to his mental health conditions including major depressive disorder (MDD).
- Claimed conditions
- gastrointestinal disorder, lactose intolerance, incontinence
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 1, 2023
- Citation
- 23012610
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 23012610.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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The Veteran's claims for mental depression/anxiety, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and gastrointestinal disorder are remanded due to the need for VA examinations and an adequate medical opinion.
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The Veteran's appeal for special monthly compensation and service connection was denied due to a late filing of the Board Appeal request.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to an inadequate VA examination, and a new medical opinion is needed regarding whether the Veteran's gastrointestinal or esophageal disability was caused or aggravated by service or any related conditions.
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