Environmental Medicine

Gulf War Syndrome

What is Gulf War syndrome?

Gulf War syndrome is a widely used term to refer to the unexplained illnesses occurring in Gulf War veterans.

What are the symptoms of Gulf War syndrome?

The following are the most common symptoms of Gulf War syndrome. However, each person experiences symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

fatigue
musculoskeletal pain
cognitive problems
skin rashes
diarrhea

Symptoms of Gulf War syndrome may resemble other medical conditions. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis. Symptoms continue to pose a frustrating problem for affected veterans and their physicians. Despite extensive research, the cause of the syndrome remains unexplained.

The impact of Gulf War syndrome:

According to the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, at least 12 percent of Gulf War veterans are currently receiving some form of disability compensation because of Gulf War syndrome.

What are the possible causes of Gulf War syndrome?

Possible causes include:

chemical warfare agents, particularly nerve gas, or the pyridostigmine bromide, which was given as a preventive measure to soldiers likely to be expose to chemical warfare agents.
psychological factors, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Veterans with Gulf War syndrome symptoms have high rates of accompanying psychiatric disorders.
other chemical agents, such as smoke from oil well fires, pesticides, depleted uranium or exposure to solvents and corrosive liquids during repair and maintenance.

Treatment for Gulf War syndrome:

While there is no specific treatment for Gulf War syndrome, research suggests than an approach called cognitive-behavioral therapy may help patients with non-specific symptoms syndromes lead more productive lives by actively managing their symptoms.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is conducting a two-year, scientifically controlled study to determine the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for veterans with these symptoms.

Other research involving Gulf War syndrome:

Research into Gulf War syndrome, which remains controversial, is taking place in research centers around the country.