Information for Veterans
Contact information for Tacoma Vet Center is 4916 Center St., Suite E Tacoma, WA 98409 Phone: (253) 565-7038.
Tests for asbestos exposure should be administered to people who fit the description below. Read each of the following points for the most significant characteristics of people who may be at risk for asbestos exposure:
- Individuals with breathing problems
- Those with ongoing exposure to asbestos
- Anyone who thinks they have had ongoing exposure to asbestos
- Immediate family members of individuals who have worked in asbestos-related areas, even if the person who worked with asbestos has no evident exposure signs or respiratory issues
Four specific diseases result from 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 most commonly known symptoms of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, the tangible 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 crucial to seek a doctor's advice if you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos. Other ways of 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. At times, doctors speak a language that may be unlcear to the average person. Don't be afraid to question your medical professional about your condition. If you don't understand your doctor, request that he put it in plain words so you can better get the picture. All citizens who have participated in the U.S. Armed Forces should receive the benefits they deserve. Weitz & Luxenberg is committed to making this happen. This includes compensation for life-threatening diseases that are caused by contact with asbestos, such as lung cancer.
If you or someone you love has developed mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos, we can help. It's never too late for a free case evaluation. The form below initiates the process.
your next step . . .
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Learn more about services for VAs available at Spokane VA Medical Center