Help for Our Vets: Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
The contact information for Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is 2002 Holcombe Blvd. Houston, TX 77030-4298 Phone: (713) 791-1414 or (800) 553-2278.
There are certain individuals who are more easily injured by exposure to asbestos. First off, there are some questions one should ask to figure out if asbestos is a personal health threat. Some questions to ask 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? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you may wish to discuss this with your health-care provider.
Four specific diseases 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 main indicators of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, the tangible 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 essential to seek a professional opinion if you feel that you have been exposed to asbestos. Initial testing is an x-ray (side and front view of your chest.) Additional tests may include a pulmonary function test, blood work, a CT scan and/or biopsy. There are times when a doctor may speak a language that is baffling to the average person. You should not hesitate to ask your doctor about your health problem. If you don't understand your doctor, ask her to clarify so you can better know your condition. Weitz & Luxenberg is a proponent of the idea that all those who have participated in the U.S. Armed orces should receive the benefits they deserve. This includes compensation for deadly diseases such as mesothelioma.
Did you know there is no time limit for filing an asbestos lawsuit? Weitz & Luxenberg can help you receive compensation no matter when you were exposed. Simply fill out the form below to begin the process.
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Asbestos testing for veterans at the Houston Vet Center