Early-2000s Marine veteran • Repeated in-service stomach complaints • Chronic reflux after deployment
The Challenge
The VA denied GERD because there was no formal in-service diagnosis. The STRs contained few notations of “stomach pain” and prescription of antacids.
What Existed Before
- STR notations of GI discomfort
- Post-service GERD diagnosis.
Our Contribution
- Highlighted repeated GI complaints in STRs
- Explained pathophysiology of chronic reflux
- Demonstrated post-service continuity through medical records
- Connected dietary exposure during deployment to symptom onset
Key Takeaway
Once the updated medical rationale and continuity-of-symptom documentation were submitted, the veteran later received a favorable VA decision granting primary service connection for GERD.
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