Assistance for Vets
Contact information for West Texas VA Health Care System is 300 Veterans Blvd. Big Spring, TX 79720 Phone: (432) 263-7361.
Learn more about the dangers of asbestos exposure and decide if you should be tested. First off, there are some questions one should ask to figure out if exposure to asbestos is an issue. These are: Do you think you have had prolonged exposure to asbestos? Are you an immediate family member of someone who has worked in asbestos-related industries? Have you worked somewhere where asbestos insulation was used? Is it possible your exposure to asbestos was in the form of a "burst exposure" (a very heavy concentration) to asbestos for short periods of time? Was yes a response to any of these? If so, you may wish to discuss this with your health-care provider.
Certain illnesses have been linked to asbestos exposure: Asbestosis (a serious, chronic, non cancerous fibrous hardening and scarring of the lungs), mesothelioma (a cancer of the thin membranes lining the thoracic and abdominal cavities and surrounding internal organs), pleural plaque and thickening (scarring of the lining of the lung) and lung cancer. The warning signs of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, these warning signs of contact with asbestos can appear up to 25 years after initial exposure. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended.
It is important to seek a professional opinion if you presume that you have been exposed to asbestos. One form of 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. At times, doctors speak a language that is baffling to the average person. Don't fear asking your physician about your status. If you don't understand your doctor, request that he put it in plain words so you can better comprehend. Weitz & Luxenberg supports the notion that all people who have participated in the United States Armed orces should receive the benefits they deserve. This includes compensation for deadly diseases such as lung cancer.
If you or someone you love has developed mesothelioma after having contact with asbestos, let us help. It's never too late for a free case evaluation. The form below starts the process.
your next step . . .
| | | |
Discover more about benefits for VAs available at Lubbock Clinic