Scleroderma is the most fatal rheumatologic disease. There are 2 types of scleroderma, namely systemic and localized. The former is the most serious type of scleroderma and it usually occurs in women of childbearing age, whereas the latter only affects the skin and is less severe. Localized scleroderma is more common in children and the elderly, although it can develop at any age. If you were stationed at a military base contaminated with PFAS, your risk of coming to struggle with scleroderma is very high, which is why you need to keep a close eye on your health. People with scleroderma usually experience the following symptoms:
- hardened or thickened skin that looks shiny and smooth
- Raynaud’s phenomenon
- ulcers or sores on your fingertips
- tiny red spots on your face and chest
- firm, oval-shaped patches on your skin
- difficulty swallowing
- painful or swollen joints
- muscle weakness
- dry eyes or mouth
- swelling, mostly of your hands and fingers
- shortness of breath
- abdominal cramps and bloating
- heartburn
- diarrhea
- unexplained weight loss
Exposure to PFAS has a strong causal relation with scleroderma. The main source of PFAS on military bases was aqueous film-forming foam, commonly known as AFFF, a fire suppressant that contains these chemicals. It has been used since the 1960s by military firefighters and trainees to extinguish jet fuel and petroleum fires. If you were stationed at one or multiple military bases, either alone or with your family, you should pay close attention to your health and look out for the signs of scleroderma. In the regrettable case you or one of your family members receives this diagnosis, please contact our law firm, as our main area of practice is toxic exposure, and we may thereby be able to help you obtain the financial compensation you deserve.
