Inhaling asbestos fibers can result in the development of numerous painful and deadly asbestos related diseases. While asbestosis is a noncancerous side effect of asbestos exposure, it is still a serious and progressive long-term lung disease.
Asbestosis results from the scarring of lung tissue, which obstructs the passage of air and makes breathing difficult. The latency period is often decades between initial exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms. Patients with asbestosis may experience:
- Shortness of breath
- A persistent cough with mucus
- Chest tightness or pain
- Loss of appetite
- Clubbing of fingertips and toes
- A dry, crackling sound while inhaling
The severity of asbestosis depends on the amount and duration of asbestos exposure. People with asbestosis are also at increased risk of developing lung cancer.
Symptoms of asbestosis are similar to those of other respiratory diseases, so patients may undergo a variety of diagnostic tests. While treatment cannot reverse the effects of asbestos scarring in the lungs, it can slow the disease’s progression and relieve symptoms.
Protecting Victims’ Rights
Although the U.S. government placed a moratorium on the production of most asbestos products in the 1970s, many continued to be used into the 1980s and even the 1990s in some cases. As a result, unsuspecting Americans were exposed to the deadly risks of asbestos for decades.
It’s important that victims protect their legal rights as soon as they receive a diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease. Waiting too long to contact a lawyer can prevent a person from obtaining justice and compensation from the companies that failed to protect them.
For decades, Anapol Weiss has successfully advocated for patients and families affected by the devastation of asbestos diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer and more. If you or a loved one is suffering, our asbestos attorneys can help. Contact our firm for assistance.