Important Information for Vets
Relevant contact information for VA Black Hills Health Care System - Hot Springs Campus is 500 North 5th Street Hot Springs, SD 57747 Phone: (605) 745-2000.
Learn more about the dangers of asbestos exposure and decide if you should be tested. First of all, there are some questions one should ask to figure out if the threat posed by asbestos is a problem. These topics include: 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.
The following are the ailments which are associated with 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). The warning signs of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, the detectable warning signs of asbestos exposure can appear up to 25 years after initial exposure. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended.
If you don't understand your doctor's explanation, get him or her to explain it in a way that you can understand. It is important that the initial testing is an x-ray (side and front view of your chest.) Further tests may include a pulmonary function test, blood work, a CT scan and/or biopsy. Doctors sometimes speak a language unintelligible to the layman. Weitz & Luxenberg supports the notion that all citizens who have participated in the United States Armed orces should receive the services they deserve. This includes compensation for potentially fatal diseases such as lung cancer.
Coping with lung cancer can be taxing. Weitz & Luxenberg can help relieve some of the burden by providing you with a free case evaluation. Your first step is to fill out the form below.
your next step . . .
| | | |
Lawyers: Services for veterans available at Rapid City Vet Center