Symptoms Of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
A recent study revealed that contaminants from a North Carolina military base had caused adverse health effects in those exposed to the water. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, you may want to consider being tested for Camp Lejeune water contamination.
Unfortunately, many of the base’s residents and their families have suffered the consequences. Camp Lejeune water contagion symptoms can include cancer, birth defects, and other serious health problems.
Early diagnosis is critical for seeking treatment and getting the most out of it.
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Do you suspect you are a victim of chemical exposure at the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and harmed by the contaminated drinking water? The reputable premises injury attorneys at Injury Lawyer Team sponsored by Rosenfeld law offices have decades of experience advocating for injured victims harmed through the negligence of others. Contact our law offices today for a free case evaluation.
The Life-Threatening Health Consequences At Camp Lejeune Concerning Water Contamination
Camp Lejeune’s water contagion exposed thousands of service members, civilian employees, and family members to significant health problems for decades. Between 1953 and 1987, anyone working or living at Camp Lejeune, a North Carolina US military court base, was exposed to various chemical toxins in the contaminated water.
Anyone on the base and the surrounding area unknowingly drank and bathed in contaminated water. The water was also used for cooking and washing clothing.
The Camp Lejeune water contagion has affected many people over the years. The following are the groups of people who are most at risk for developing symptoms:
- Military veterans who served at Camp Lejeune during the contamination period (1953 through 1987) are at high risk for developing health conditions, such as adult leukemia, aplastic anemia, and other cancers.
- Civilian workers employed at Camp Lejeune during the contamination period are also at high risk for developing health conditions related to their exposure to contaminated water.
- Family members of service members and civilian employees who lived on base during the contamination period may also be at risk of developing an adverse health condition.
The Veterans Affairs Created a List of Presumptive Conditions Related to Exposure to Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) created the List of Presumptive Conditions Associated with Camp Lejeune Contaminated Water Exposure. This list includes adverse health conditions related to exposure to toxic chemicals at the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.
The list of known health conditions associated with contaminated water exposure includes:
- Adult leukemia
- Aplastic anemia
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Esophageal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease)
- Multiple myeloma
- Pregnancy-related illness or death (includes miscarriage, stillbirth, and congenital defects)
- Scleroderma
- Peripheral neuropathy, early-onset
- Renal toxicity
Although VA benefits for Camp Lejeune water contamination have been extended through 2021, veterans and their families who believe they are suffering from any of the following can apply online to receive free healthcare.
The VA acknowledges a list of exposure-related diseases for disability compensation purposes (listed above) and one for healthcare purposes.
Symptoms Of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Water contagion at Camp Lejeune has long been a concern for military families. New studies suggest that the contamination may have caused adverse health issues for those exposed to the toxins.
The symptoms of water contagion at the camp can vary depending on the person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Watery eyes
- Rashes
- Blood in urine
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Memory problems
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
These are just some of the symptoms reported by those exposed to water contamination at Camp Lejeune.
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Symptoms from Dangerous Toxic Exposure Levels
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has identified hazardous contaminants in the water at Camp Lejeune: trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE).
TCE and vinyl chloride exposure have been linked to kidney cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and liver cancer. Exposure to PCE has been linked to bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Trichloroethylene Exposure Symptoms
The Disease Registry has identified Trichloroethylene as a colorless, oily liquid with a chloroform-like odor. It is used as an industrial solvent to remove grease from metal parts and produce other chemicals. Exposure to trichloroethylene can cause a variety of health issues.
Immediate Acute Exposure Symptoms
Trichloroethylene is a colorless, oily liquid with a chloroform-like odor. It is used as an industrial solvent to remove grease from metal parts and produce other chemicals. Trichloroethylene and vinyl chloride exposure can cause a variety of health ailments.
The most common symptoms of acute exposure are nausea, dizziness, and headache. If you experience these symptoms, leave the area immediately and seek medical help. Trichloroethylene can also cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
Long-Term Exposure Symptoms
Exposure to trichloroethylene over a long period can cause liver damage, kidney damage, and cancer. It is crucial to note that the risk of developing these health issues is higher with increased exposure levels. If you have been exposed to trichloroethylene at work, you must see your doctor for regular checkups.
Chronic TCE Exposure Symptoms
Exposure to trichloroethylene can lead to chronic kidney disease and cancer.
- Kidney damage: Trichloroethylene is a known kidney toxin. Exposure to high levels of trichloroethylene can lead to kidney damage and failure.
- Cancer: Trichloroethylene is a human carcinogen. Long-term exposure to trichloroethylene can increase the risk of developing cancer, particularly liver cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Other health effects: Studies have also linked trichloroethylene exposure to other health issues, such as neurological effects, reproductive effects, and immune system damage.
If you think you have been exposed to trichloroethylene, you must see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can order tests to check for trichloroethylene exposure and can offer treatment recommendations.
Symptoms of Perchloroethylene (PCE) Exposure
The increased risks associated with exposure could lead to a severe health conditions requiring hospitalization, such as cancer or liver damage.
Those exposed to PCE in the water supply should contact their healthcare provider if they experience these symptoms. If you think you may have been exposed to PCE, call the Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222.
Immediate Acute Exposure Symptoms
The Immediate Acute Exposure Symptoms of PCE exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and eye and skin irritation.
Long-Term Exposure Symptoms
Exposure to PCE for an extended time could lead to more severe health effects, including liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage. It could also lead to an elevated risk of cancer. Long-term exposure symptoms can include:
- Anemia
- Nosebleeds
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Deafness
- Blindness
Chronic Exposure Symptoms
Chronic exposure is repeated or constant exposure to a chemical substance, usually over a long time. This exposure can lead to more severe health effects like organ damage or cancer. Symptoms of chronic exposure can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Eye and skin irritation
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Central nervous system damage
- Increased risk of cancer
Benzene Exposure Symptoms
Benzene is a carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer. It also irritates the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Symptoms of exposure to benzene include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Long-term exposure can lead to blood cells and bone marrow damage and elevated cancer risk.
Immediate Acute Exposure Symptoms
The immediate symptoms of acute benzene exposure are headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. The inhalation of benzene vapors causes these symptoms.
Chronic Exposure Symptoms
Chronic exposure to Benzene can lead to damage to the blood cells and bone marrow. It can result in anemia, leukemia, and other blood disorders. There is also an elevated risk of cancer with chronic exposure to Benzene.
Health conditions and cancers associated with chronic exposure to Benzene include:
- Bladder cancer
- Liver cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
- Other myelodysplastic syndromes
Benzene exposure can also cause damage to the reproductive system and birth defects. Pregnant women exposed to Benzene may have a higher risk of miscarrying or having a baby with birth defects.
Exposure to Benzene can cause central nervous system effects, such as sleepiness, tremors, and confusion.
Long-Term Exposure Symptoms
The long-term effects of exposure to Benzene can be severe. Benzene is a carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer. It also irritates the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
Symptoms of exposure to Benzene include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Long-term exposure can lead to damage to the blood cells and bone marrow and an increased risk of cancer.
Treatment for the Toxic Substances from Benzene Exposure
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), there is no specific treatment for patients harmed by Benzene exposure. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and supporting the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. If someone has been exposed to high levels of Benzene, they may need to be hospitalized.
If you have been exposed to Benzene, removing yourself from the exposure is crucial and getting fresh air immediately. Call 911 or the nearest emergency room if you have difficulty breathing.
Camp Lejeune Justice Act Helping Injured Service Members and Families
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was first proposed in the United States Congress to provide healthcare for those affected by contaminated water exposure at Camp Lejeune, including those who developed cancer and other illnesses after exposure to toxic chemicals.
In June 2017, Congress enacted the Camp Lejeune Justice Act into law. Lawmakers created the Act to provide health benefits and compensation to the victims of contamination at Camp Lejeune.
The law is retroactive, meaning it covers anyone affected by the contamination at Camp Lejeune, even if they have not yet filed a claim. If you or a loved one has experienced health ailments from exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, you may be eligible for benefits under this new law.
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination: The PACT Act
The US Congress passed the Honoring America’s Veterans and Caring for Camp Lejeune Families Act, or “PACT Act.” This act provides health care to veterans and their families exposed to contaminated water while stationed at Camp Lejeune.
The Act requires the VA to provide medical care to veterans for any illness that is determined to be associated with exposure to contaminated water at the military camp. The VA must also provide this care to family members stationed at Camp Lejeune if the service member has since died from a condition on the VA’s list of presumptive conditions.
You must first file a claim with the VA to receive benefits under the Act. Once your claim is received, the VA will determine if you are eligible for benefits. If you are found to be eligible, the VA will provide you with a health care card that entitles you to free medical care for any condition on the VA’s list of presumptive conditions.
Who Is Eligible for Benefits and Compensation?
If you think you or a loved one may be eligible for benefits under the Act, contact an experienced VA-accredited attorney sponsored by Rosenfeld Law Offices today. Our team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of veterans and their families. We can help you navigate the sometimes complex and confusing VA claims process to recover the disability compensation you deserve.
We will help you overcome legal hurdles and access the proper medical records, including a presumptive service connection for specific disabilities associated with TCE, PCE, and vinyl chloride exposure while in military service. Eligible veterans who served at Camp Lejeune and their families harmed by the contaminated wells could receive benefits.
Hiring a Premises Liability Lawyer to Receive the VA Disability Benefits You Deserve
Were you in military service at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 and have been diagnosed with one of a condition from the water supply? You may be eligible for disability benefits from the VA.
Also, if you are the surviving spouse, child, or parent of a service member who died due to their service at Camp Lejeune, you may be eligible for certain benefits and disability compensation.
If you think you or a loved one may be eligible for benefits, contact an experienced VA-accredited attorney at Rosenfeld Law Offices today. Our team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of veterans and their families, and we can help you navigate the sometimes complex and confusing VA claims process.
Contact the Injury Lawyer Team to schedule a free legal consultation. All confidential or sensitive information you share with our legal team remains private through an attorney-client relationship.
