The Board granted ratings of 10 percent for allergic rhinitis, 30 percent for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) right upper extremity, and 30 percent for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), while denying a rating in excess of 70 percent for depressive disorder. The IVDS lumbar spine was granted a 40 percent rating, with separate ratings of 20 percent each for the left and right lower extremities.

The deciding factor: The Board found that the Veteran's symptoms met or approximated the criteria for the assigned ratings based on medical evidence and testimony, but did not warrant higher ratings due to the lack of more severe manifestations.

Claimed conditions

Allergic rhinitis, Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) - right upper extremity, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), lumbar spine, Lumbar radiculopathy - left lower extremity, Lumbar radiculopathy - right lower extremity, Depressive disorder

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

October 27, 2025

Citation

A25092632

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