Ye Odle Sarge

How does one get the needed documentation to prove Sleep Apnea and GERD is service connected? I served from March 1969 to March 1972 but it was not until the mid to late 1990's that the medical world began identifying individuals who suffered with SA & GERD. While on active duty I worked a 4/2 rotating shift and always considered my trouble sleeping was because I could never establish a good sleep habit and my constant indigestion and heartburn to not eating well and enjoying good German beer. Finally about 1996 my family Dr got me tested for Sleep Apnea determining I had Obstructive Sleep Apnea requiring me to use a CPAP nightly, she also got on me when I finally mentioned I was constantly having to take tums and drinking Alka-Seltzer multiple times a day. I left MO toward the end of 2001 and since I have had multiple Dr's who continue prescribing meds for my GERD and telling me to wear my CPAP. My VA Dr several years ago had me retested for my sleep apnea and the VA has determined I have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as well as prescribing the needed meds for my GERD. While in basic, March 1969 - June 1969, about the end of May or first of June I was hospitalized for an upper respiratory infection and ever since I have suffered with sinus problems including sinus infections two to three times a year and on a sinus pill daily. I currently have a total of 40% disability for tinnitus, migraines, and mental health. I have always filed claims one problem at a time the last being for OSA which of course they denied the claim. I am plaining to appeal through the Appeals Board requesting a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge. I am also contacting my former Dr in MO hoping that she will provide a Nexus letter and DBQ for my OSA and GERD. I also need to find out how if at all possible to get my hospital records for my URI from the hospital at Ft Jackson. I guess my questions are: (1) is it best to take each issue separately or combine them, (2) for the HLR do I go it alone or get DAV or an attorney to represent me? Ye Ole Sarge