ASBESTOS TESTING
Veterans services at the Gary Area Vet Center in Merrillville, IN

Contact information for veterans to test for asbestos exposure: Gary Area Vet Center, 6505 Broadway Ave., Merrillville, IN 46410. Phone: (219) 736-5633.

Read on to find out about who may be at risk for asbestos exposure. First of all, there are some questions one should ask to figure out if asbestos exposure is an issue. The questions 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.

The following are the ailments which result from 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). Certain specific signs of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, the tangible warning signs of contact with asbestos can appear up to 25 years after primary exposure. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended.

It is crucial to see a doctor if you presume that you have been exposed to asbestos. Other ways of testing is an x-ray (side and front view of your chest.) Other 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 layman. Don't fear asking your medical professional about your circumstance. If you don't totally grasp your doctor, ask her to explain it in a way that you can better understand. All citizens who have participated in the U.S. Armed Forces should receive the services they deserve. Weitz & Luxenberg is committed to making this happen. This includes compensation for potentially fatal diseases that are caused by exposure to asbestos, such as mesothelioma.

Coping with mesothelioma can be hard. Weitz & Luxenberg can help lessen some of the hardship by providing you with a free case evaluation. Your first step is to complete the form below.

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