American soldiers who are called to active duty experience some of the most intense, demanding, and trying challenges an individual can possibly face. Luckily, our soldiers are the best of the best. These dedicated, fearless heroes command unequivocal respect upon the completion of their service. But for some, the trials do not end when they return home — instead they are forced to contend with another fierce opponent. For these veterans, who may appear in perfect health, they could be, in fact, waging war with a host of invisible wounds — ranging from mesothelioma and post traumatic stress disorder to traumatic brain injuries.
Mesothelioma, a cancer of the lungs, stomach, and heart, is diagnosed in unprecedented numbers among veterans. This rare form of cancer primarily results from an over exposure to asbestos. Like a ticking time bomb, mesothelioma symptoms can take up to twenty years to surface in the afflicted. The U.S. Military promptly stopped using asbestos after it was discovered to be dangerous in the 1970’s, but due to the disease’s latent properties, the number of veterans diagnosed is expected to increase during the next 5-10 years.
Due to the nature of Mesothelioma, it can be particularly difficult to diagnose. The symptoms of mesothelioma are described as being extremely similar to asthma, and other less serious conditions. Because of this, the disease is often left undiagnosed until it is far too late. Luckily, if mesothelioma is discovered at an early stage, it can be treated successfully. If diagnosed during a time when surgery is still an option, the cancerous tumor can be removed entirely. If mesothelioma is allowed to spread to other essential organs, the mesothelioma life expectancy is generally no longer than fourteen months.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Military combat is a relatively common source for PTSD. Soldiers suffering from PTSD will experience persistent frightening thoughts and memories of their ordeal. The incessant haunting memories eventually cause the individual to experience an emotional numbness, often times with family and friends. For a veteran, this can be an extremely destructive if not treated with emotional therapy and rehabilitation. Sufferers of PTSD often turn to self medication in order to escape overwhelming feelings they are unable to properly process.
A traumatic brain injury can completely change the lives of a veteran and their family, leaving utter devastation in its wake. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) result from sudden disturbances to the brain. TBI’s can result when the head suddenly or violently hits something, or when an object pierces the skull and comes into contact with brain tissue. Depending on the extent of damage, the symptoms of TBI can be mild, moderate, or severe. About half of “severely head-injured” soldiers will require surgery to remove or repair bruised brain tissue. Disabilities resulting from a TBI depend on the location and the severity of the injury. Some common disabilities include problems with thinking, memory, reasoning, sensory processing (smell, taste, touch, hearing, etc), communication, and behavior or mental health (depression, anxiety, aggression, etc). More severe head injuries can lead to an unresponsive, vegetative state.
It is difficult to know that these are some of the consequences our veterans face after doing their patriotic duty. Knowing their challenges, though, only allows us to better support them. If anyone you know is battling invisible wounds, make sure to explore your local resources and extend a helping hand.
