Gulf War Syndrome
Gulf War Syndrome
In 1991, service men and women were serving as part of military operations during the Gulf War. Since that time, researchers and medical personnel have become aware of a vague and frightening condition that has been labeled “Gulf War Syndrome.”
What Is Gulf War Syndrome?
The Gulf War was very brief, with combat lasting only 43 days. Many veterans who served during that time have developed an inexplicable cluster of symptoms which collectively came to be known as “Gulf War Syndrome.” Researchers dubbed this condition as such because the one thing all the victims shared in common was service in that region.
Gulf War Syndrome was, for many years, difficult for doctors to diagnose, primarily because of the vague nature of the symptoms which can mimic other diseases. Many veterans experienced:
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Lapses in memory
Because these symptoms were so general, it took nearly 30 years for the condition to become widely recognized and reported. Once researchers connected the common thread of Gulf War service, they began studying intently to find a root cause.
Who Is Affected by Gulf War Syndrome?
It is likely that there are as many as 100,000 Gulf War veterans who have symptoms of Gulf War Syndrome but have not yet sought help for or been diagnosed as having the illness. So far, at least 1,016 victims have been identified through genetic testing.
If you served in the Gulf War, particularly in Iraq, and you believe you may have been exposed to any chemical agents that have led to illness or disability, it is important to seek help immediately.
