Can Military Service Cause Sarcoidosis? What Veterans Need to Know

Table of Content

• Introduction
• What is Sarcoidosis?
• Can Military Service Cause Sarcoidosis?
• Sarcoidosis Symptoms and Diagnosis
• Conclusion

Summary

This blog post takes you through the experiences of a veteran. Who is a victim of sarcoidosis and was once in the military. This one explains what sarcoidosis is, what leads to it, and what its indications are. Also examined is the military as a risk factor for acquiring sarcoidosis. Since some of the veterans may have been in the military. Finally, in the last component of the blog. Some recommendations are made for veterans with sarcoidosis.

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is an incredibly rare autoimmune disease. Which affects many organs and tissues. This disease is characterized by granulomas in its initial stage. They are small round swollen bumps due to inflammation. Sarcoidosis thus may cause tiredness, fever, weight loss, and other symptoms. Such as coughing and shortness of breath.

Having sarcoidosis means that the immune system is in overdrive. Or, at least, that is what everybody thinks causes the disease. Several authors have indicated that it could be possible to correlate. Being a member of the military with getting sarcoidosis. However, there is still a need for more research to establish this connection.

What is Sarcoidosis?

Sarcoidosis is a disease that causes small lumps of inflammatory cells to form in the body’s tissues. These are the groups of cells called granulomas. It can injure the lungs, skin, eyes, and other organs of the body. Even today, no one exactly knows the cause of sarcoidosis. However, the study proves that there can be some environmental factors. Which are present in the military.

Can Military Service Cause Sarcoidosis?

About this question, there is no definite wrap-up answer. But from certain research. It was figured out that probably there is a connection between serving in the military and sarcoidosis. It revealed another fact that veterans have a higher risk of getting sarcoidosis than individuals. However, the author would like to point out that. This study did not mean to claim that being in the military leads to sarcoidosis.

Sarcoidosis is said to be incurred among people in the military. Because of environmental factors such as chemicals or infections, among others. Former military personnel individuals. Those who have been in the military have poor immunity. This is more so because they are prone to sarcoidosis, which is due to poor immune systems.

Sarcoidosis Symptoms and Diagnosis

Several forms of presentation may be seen in sarcoidosis depending on the organs affected. Some of them include recurrent coughing, shortness of breath, chest pains, skin rashes, as well as itchy eyes. Further, investigations may be employed to make a diagnosis. They include chest X-rays or CT scans to get a sample to confirm the presence of granulomas.

VA Disability Ratings for Sarcoidosis

If veterans have been diagnosed with sarcoidosis. They may be eligible for retirement benefits from the VA. The VA then provides the veteran with a disability rating. Which considers his or her health state as well as the extent of disability impelling the veteran off work. Those who have symptoms or consequences that are worse are given a higher score. Sarcoidosis sufferers have to provide documentation. That the illness is service-connected for them to be granted benefits.

Conclusion

There is an essential need to establish the link. Veterans have with their military experience and sarcoidosis. Veterans need to understand that sarcoidosis can be difficult to cope with. But at the same time, they should realize that they are eligible for VA benefits. And that an early diagnosis is vital. Thus, they can be able to cope with their situation. They have a better living by seeking medical attention and applying for VA benefits.