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Evidence checklist

Allergic Rhinitis

DC 652238 CFR § 4.97Respiratory

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
ENT evaluation documenting rhinitis diagnosis and severityCritical

An otolaryngologist evaluation documenting nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, itching, and any nasal polyps or mucosal changes on endoscopy.

Private provider · independent opinion
Allergy testing (skin-prick or specific IgE blood test)

Skin-prick testing or RAST/ImmunoCAP blood tests confirming specific allergen sensitization. Positive results support the allergic diagnosis and strengthen the link to environmental exposures during service.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking allergic rhinitis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your allergic rhinitis to in-service environmental exposures (dust, sand, mold, pollen at deployment locations) or establishing in-service onset.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Treatment records (antihistamines, nasal steroids, immunotherapy)

Records documenting ongoing treatment including antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and any allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).

VA or private records · written request
CT scan of sinuses (if sinus involvement present)

CT imaging documenting sinus mucosal thickening or other changes when sinusitis is present alongside allergic rhinitis, which may support a combined or higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Sinusitis/Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx, and PharynxCritical

Standardized form capturing nasal examination findings, symptom frequency, and functional impact of allergic rhinitis.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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