Gulf War Illness

Gulf War Illness (GWI) Overview

Gulf War Illness is a multi-symptom condition that has existed for six months or more resulting from military service in the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War. GWI is also associated with diverse biological alterations that prominently affect the brain and nervous system, including significant changes in brain structure and function, autonomic nervous system function, and neuro-endocrine and immune measures. Furthermore, studies indicate that Gulf War veterans have significantly higher rates of ALS or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (i.e., Lou Gehrig’s disease) than other veterans and that Gulf War veterans potentially exposed to nerve agents have died from brain cancer at elevated rates.

Gulf War Illness Causes/Types

Chemical warfare agents — particularly nerve gas, or pyridostigmine bromide (BP) pills (used to protect troops from the effects of nerve agents)
Psychological factors — such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Veterans with Gulf War illness 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, used during repair and maintenance.

Gulf War Illness Signs and Symptoms

Complex of multiple, concurrent symptoms typically includes:

Persistent memory and concentration problems
Cognitive difficulties
Chronic headaches
Widespread pain
Gastrointestinal problems
Unexplained fatigue
Chronic diarrhea
Skin disorders
Fibromyalgia
Neurological symptoms
Menstrual disorders

Gulf War Illness Risk Factors

If you served in any of these locations on or after August 2, 1990, VA presumes your undiagnosed illness is associated with your service:

Afghanistan (airspace not included)
Bahrain
Egypt (airspace not included)
Iraq
Israel (airspace not included)
Jordan (airspace not included)
Kuwait
Neutral zone between Iraq and Saudi Arabia
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
Syria (airspace not included)
Turkey (airspace not included)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The waters of the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea

Note: The airspace above all the countries and locations listed in this section is recognized, unless specified that it’s not included.

Gulf War Illness Treatment

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a complex condition with no single cure. While there is no specific treatment for GWI, research suggests that cognitive-behavioral therapy may help patients with nonspecific symptoms lead more productive lives by actively managing their symptoms. GWI treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Due to the nature of GWI, treatment is necessarily individualized, and effectiveness of treatments can vary from person to person.

Considerations:

Individualized treatment: Each patient’s symptoms and needs are unique, so treatment plans are customized accordingly.
Multidisciplinary approach: A team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers, may be involved in treatment.
Long-term management: GWI is a chronic condition requiring ongoing monitoring and support.

Types of Treatments:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT):Helps patients cope with symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Medications: Antidepressants, pain relievers, and other medications may be prescribed for specific symptoms.
Acupuncture: Some studies suggest acupuncture can reduce pain and improve physical function.
Exercise: Gradual and tailored exercise programs can help improve physical fitness and reduce fatigue.
Lifestyle modifications: Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress can help alleviate symptoms.

If you have not already, we encourage you to sign up for the gulf war registry exam. For more information please click here. Veterans who are eligible for the Gulf War Registry may also join the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry. For more information, please click here.

Other Resources and Support

https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/benefits/registry-exam.asp

https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp

https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/gulf-war-illness-afghanistan/

https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/gulf-war-illness-southwest-asia/

https://www.benefits.va.gov/PERSONA/veteran-gulfwar.asp

https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/medically-unexplained-illness.asp