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Healthy You Archives |
Caring for Mind and Body
The Health Effects of WarVeterans must cope with physical and emotional issues that deserve treatment
Friendship and tennis are keys to good health for Frank Speer (third from left) and his fellow World War II vets, ages 84-91. They are (l-r) Carl Bushner, Solomon Musican, Gershen Weiner and Phil Blaum of Allentown, Jimmy Passard of Coplay and Albert Strunk of Nazareth. A Salute to Our VeteransThousands of local men and women have risked their lives and their health to serve our country in times of war. In honor of Independence Day, we salute these and all the other veterans through the generations.
Frank Speer of Emmaus is an inspiring role model for today’s returning servicemen and women. The retired U.S. Air Force pilot was just 22 years old when he was shot down over Germany in 1944. He survived the crash, walked 400 miles before being captured, and spent a year in a prison camp before escaping. Speer didn’t escape the health problems common to veterans—whose willing sacrifice for their country doesn’t end when they return home. “I decided not to let my health control me,” he says. He returned to school, became an engineer and started a family, and today is an active 84-year-old. “I followed my doctor’s advice and stayed optimistic,” he says. If you or someone you love is a veteran, here’s advice on some of the health issues you may be facing. Disabilities resulting from combat can lead to physical, emotional and social problems at home. One of the most important factors in regaining independence is a positive attitude. “Set realistic goals for yourself,” says psychiatrist Joel Lerman, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network, “and rely on your family and friends to help you achieve them.” A support group also can provide an emotional boost. If possible, return to the job you had before deployment. The Americans With Disabilities Act prohibits employers from discriminating against qualified people with disabilities. If that isn’t an option, consider returning to school or starting a home-based business. And don’t forget to exercise. “Maintaining physical strength is a key factor in independence,” says Lerman’s colleague, geriatrician Laura Carothers, D.O. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common concern for war veterans, and it affects everyone differently. “Some have only mild symptoms, while others suffer recurring nightmares, anxiety attacks or depression,” Lerman says. Veterans with PTSD associate common things like the sound of an airplane or alarm clock with painful war memories. “They’re often fatigued and irritable,” Lerman says, “and they distance themselves from relationships and become isolated.” The Pentagon is doing its best to prevent PTSD. Soldiers returning from Iraq are encouraged to join a new mental health screening program aimed at preventing serious problems later. If you have PTSD symptoms, “join a veterans’ support group or write about your feelings in a journal,” Lerman suggests. If symptoms become severe, see a psychiatrist or counselor. Antidepressant medications can be helpful in conjunction with therapy. Severe weight loss is an issue for many former prisoners of war. Speer lost 67 pounds in 11 months. “Nutritional deficiencies cause many health problems, including heart disease,” Carothers says. “To prevent future complications, tell your doctor if you’ve been severely malnourished in the past.” Frostbite was a concern for many World War II veterans. As a POW, Speer was forced to be outdoors for hours in frigid conditions without proper clothing. Frostbite leads to impaired circulation, skin numbness and pain, arthritic joints and deformities. Veterans who’ve had frostbite should check their feet daily for redness, inflammation and sores. Carothers also recommends seeing a podiatrist for X-rays and an evaluation of the circulation in your legs and feet. “If needed, the podiatrist can fit you with special supportive shoes,” she says.
Talk to and see your loved one serving in Iraq.
Agent Orange was a herbicide used in Vietnam to kill plants providing cover for the enemy. “A chemical in Agent Orange has long been known to cause many cancers and a skin disorder called chloracne,” Carothers says. More recently, it’s believed to be the cause of diabetes in many Vietnam vets. Carothers suggests calling your local VA hospital to find out if you’re eligible for care or compensation for this or other war-related injury or disease.
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Gulf War syndrome is not a single disease but a combination of several reported by soldiers serving in the Middle East, says trauma surgeon Michael Badellino, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. He himself is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Symptoms include fatigue, skin rash, headache, muscle and joint pain, memory loss, shortness of breath,
diarrhea and chest pain. “The exact cause isn’t yet known, but the condition has been linked to many factors including exposure to toxins from oil fires and from chemical and biological weapons during their destruction,” Badellino says. Some scientists believe predeployment anthrax and polio immunizations may be a factor. If you have any of the symptoms, see your doctor immediately. Leishmaniasis is a disease spread by the bite of infected sand flies. Because there is no vaccination, it’s a concern for all soldiers in Iraq. “It causes sores on the skin that can spread if not treated,” Badellino says. Another form of the disease can affect internal organs, and it can take several months for symptoms to surface. Veterans should be wary of the warning signs—weight loss, fever and swollen glands. If you notice any of these, see a physician. If the disease affects your internal organs, you’ll need to be hospitalized for intravenous antibiotics. Want to Know More about VA support groups, how one military family is coping while their loved one is serving, or Frank Speer's experiences in wartime and today? Click above. This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM
ARTICLE TOOLS:
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 July August 2006 Eating Healthy
Staying Fit
Caring for Mind and Body
Just for Women
Just for Men
Raising a Family
Heart of Healthy You
Protecting Your Health
Coping with Illness
Aging Well
Keeping Up to Date
Weight Control
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