The Board granted service connection for rhinitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) on a presumptive basis due to exposure to fine particulate matter during active service in Southwest Asia. The Board also granted increased ratings of 30 percent, and no higher, for headaches, thoracolumbar spine strain, right rotator cuff tendonitis, and left rotator cuff tendonitis from December 13, 2021.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's rhinitis and IBS are presumed related to his exposure to fine particulate matter during active service in Southwest Asia. The headaches, thoracolumbar spine strain, right rotator cuff tendonitis, and left rotator cuff tendonitis caused functional impairment equivalent to the specified levels.
- Claimed conditions
- rhinitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), headaches, thoracolumbar spine strain, right rotator cuff tendonitis, left rotator cuff tendonitis
- How they argued it
- Presumptive (no nexus needed)
- Exposure basis
- Burn pits / airborne hazards
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- December 1, 2025
- Citation
- A25102806
Want to see how appeals like this one tend to go? Appeals like mine
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.