Citation Nr: 18152873
Decision Date: 11/27/18	Archive Date: 11/26/18

DOCKET NO. 16-36 053
DATE:	November 27, 2018
REMANDED
Entitlement to a compensable evaluation for sinus infections is remanded.
Entitlement to a compensable evaluation for allergic rhinitis is remanded.
Entitlement to a disability evaluation in excess of 10 percent for chronic constipation is remanded.
Entitlement to a disability evaluation in excess of 20 percent for stress incontinence is remanded.
REASONS FOR REMAND
1. Allergic rhinitis 
2. Stress incontinence 
3. Sinus infections 
In a July 2016 substantive appeal, the Veteran asserted that her service-connectred rhinitis, sinusitis, and urinary incontinence disabilities have increased in severity since she was last examined by VA. The Veteran should be provided an opportunity to report for a VA examination to ascertain the current severity and manifestations of rhinitis, sinusititis, and urinary incontinence disabilities.
4. Chronic constipation
During a Mach 2015 VA examination, the examiner noted the Veteran had no episodes of bowel disturbance with abdominal distress, or exacerbations or attack of the intestinal condition. However, the examiner also noted the Veteran complained of abdominal distention after about five days without a bowel movement. The Veteran is service-connected for chronic constipation, and has asserted she has recurring constipation. As the Veteran’s claims seems to either contradict the findings of the March 2015 VA examiner or describe a worsening of the condition, the Board finds another VA examination is necessary to determine the nature and severity of the Veteran’s chronic constipation. 
The matters are REMANDED for the following action:
1. Schedule the Veteran for an examination by an appropriate clinician to obtain evidence addressing the current severity of her service-connected rhinitis and sinusitis. To the extent possible, the examiner should identify any symptoms and functional impairments due to the Veteran’s rhinitis and sinusitis and discuss the effect of the Veteran’s disabilities on any occupational functioning and activities of daily living.  
2. Schedule the Veteran for an examination by an appropriate clinician to obtain evidence addressing the current severity of her service-connected urinary incontinence. The examiner should provide a full description of the disability and report all signs and symptoms necessary for evaluating the Veteran’s disability under the rating criteria.  
3. Schedule the Veteran for an examination by an appropriate clinician obtain evidence addressing the current severity of her service-connected chronic constipation. 
 
Matthew Tenner
Veterans Law Judge
Board of Veterans’ Appeals
ATTORNEY FOR THE BOARD	Diane M. Donahue Boushehri, Counsel