A rating in excess of 10 percent for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is denied.

Board reasoning

The Board applied the rating criteria under DC 7346 to determine that a rating in excess of 10 percent is not warranted, concluding the record shows two or more symptoms compatible with the 30 percent criteria but not those that produce a ‘persistently recurrent’ or more severe impairment. The evidence, including December 2019 VA examination and treatment history, does not demonstrate substantial impediment to health or work, nor the specific symptoms (e.g., substernal or arm pain with significant impairment, weight loss with hematemesis, etc.) needed for a higher rating. The Board also determined no separate sleep impairment rating is warranted due to pyramiding with the Veteran’s PTSD, and favorably relied on medical opinions over lay statements to assess the severity of GERD.