Important Information for Our Veterans
Relevant contact information for VISN 4: VA Stars & Stripes Healthcare Network is c/o VAMC, Delafield Road Pittsburgh, PA 15240 Phone: (412) 784-3939.
There are certain individuals who are more easily injured by exposure to asbestos. These individuals are people who: have had contact with asbestos through a "burst exposure" i.e. a very heavy concentration of asbestos for short periods of time, irregular breathing patterns, prolonged exposure to asbestos, or friends or relatives of people who have been involved in asbestos-related trades even if the former employee asbestos has no visible symptoms.
In general, there is a group of diseases that have been linked to asbestos exposure: Mesothelioma (a cancer of the thin membranes lining the thoracic and abdominal cavities and surrounding internal organs), asbestosis (a serious, chronic, non cancerous fibrous hardening and scarring of the lungs), lung cancer, and pleural plaque and thickening (scarring of the lining of the lung). Some symptoms of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, these warning signs of asbestos exposure can appear up to 25 years after initial exposure. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended.
It is vital to seek a professional opinion if you imagine that you have been exposed to asbestos. Initial testing is an x-ray (side and front view of your chest.) Added tests may include a pulmonary function test, blood work, a CT scan and/or biopsy. Doctors sometimes speak a language that is perplexing to the layman. As a patient, you should be sure to question your doctor about your health problem. If you don't fully understand your doctor, get him to explain it in a way that you can better get the picture. All men and women who have participated in the American Armed Forces should receive the benefits they deserve. Weitz & Luxenberg is committed to making this happen. This includes compensation for deadly diseases that are caused by inhalation of asbestos, such as mesothelioma.
Surviving with asbestos-related diseases can be very difficult. Weitz & Luxenberg can help ease some of the stress by providing you with a free case evaluation. Your first step is to complete the form below.
your next step . . .
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Learn more about help for VAs available at VISN 4: VA Stars & Stripes Healthcare Network