Vertigo & vestibular disorders decisions — 2023

The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for right leg shortening was denied as there is no evidence of more than two inches of shortening.,The Veteran's claim for service connection for balance problems (claimed as vertigo) and hypertension, as well as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), were remanded due to insufficient examination findings.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not support a higher rating for TBI, as his cognitive impairment was rated at 10 percent. His hearing loss disability is also rated at 10 percent. Service connection for right and left knee disabilities, lumbar strain, and SMC based on need for regular aid and attendance were all remanded.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for tinnitus, right ear hearing loss disability, and vertigo have been denied due to lack of current diagnoses.,Service connection has also been denied for hypertension, kidney disease, diabetes mellitus type II, bilateral upper extremity and lower extremity peripheral neuropathy, and a cardiovascular disorder (including CAD).,The Veteran's claim for entitlement to total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) has also been denied.

The Board has denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for Meniere's syndrome and peripheral vestibular disorder, finding that there is no evidence linking these conditions to his military service.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for allergic rhinitis, a chronic ear disorder (vertigo), and an acquired psychiatric disorder. The Board found that there was no evidence linking these conditions to service.

The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for various conditions, including a vestibular disorder and headaches. The Veteran's assertions of in-service injuries are considered, along with relevant medical records.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's Meniere's disease is at least as likely as not related to service, and therefore grants his claim for service connection.

The Board remands the claims for service connection for a peripheral vestibular disorder, right-hand disability, neck disability, and left knee disability to the VA AOJ for further development.

The Board has granted service connection for Meniere's disease, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea on a secondary basis to the Veteran's service-connected tinnitus and depressive disorder.,Service connection was denied for gout, back condition, and COPD as there is no medical evidence linking these conditions to active service.

The Board has remanded the case due to questions regarding whether the Veteran can be granted special monthly compensation at the housebound rate, given his service-connected disabilities. The TDIU claim for PTSD is also pending and will need further review.

The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for Meniere's disease and vertigo, as well as bilateral hearing loss disability due to potential in-service noise exposure. Additional VA medical opinions are needed to address the etiology of these conditions.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for chronic right wrist sprain has been granted. The Board also found that the Veteran is entitled to an initial rating in excess of 10 percent for peripheral vestibular damage with vertigo of the left ear from October 2, 2013, through October 1, 2019, and an initial rating in excess of 30 percent thereafter.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection due to discrepancies in her active duty dates and outstanding medical records. The issues include back disability, depression, vertigo, migraines, bilateral wrist pain, right foot disability, and left eye disability.