Bacterial rhinitis (nasal infection)

For the 50% rating, medical records confirming a diagnosis of rhinoscleroma are central. This typically includes microbiology or pathology reports identifying the causative bacteria, such as a biopsy result or culture finding consistent with rhinoscleroma.

For the 10% rating, the evidence needs to show two things together: that turbinate hypertrophy is permanent, and that it causes the required degree of nasal obstruction. Records from an ear, nose, and throat specialist or primary care provider documenting enlarged turbinates would help, as would imaging or endoscopy reports. Findings from a VA or private examination that measure or describe the degree of obstruction — greater than 50 percent on both sides, or complete on one side — directly address the rating criteria. Your own statements describing chronic nasal blockage and how it affects your breathing, sleep, or daily activities can support what the clinical findings show.