Asbestos is a fibrous material with remarkable insulating properties. The history use and application dates back to prehistoric times with popularity that is apparent in the 19th century due to the said many “upsides” but has been proven to be false – bringing in fatal diseases due to long exposure.
Today, even with the caution of “no safe level exposure” – asbestos is still evident, used and a desirable material in the construction and automotive industry. According to research, this material is associated with health hazards such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. To be able to share knowledge, this article helps individuals comprehend the legal and medical problems tied to asbestos exposure to protect themselves.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestosis
This condition is characterized by scarring of the lung tissue. The common symptoms are shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, wheezing, and fatigue. In the early stage, the symptoms are unnoticeable. But as the condition progresses, you’ll experience complications like respiratory infections and strain of the lungs.
Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure is also linked to lung cancer. When the fibers get clogged in the heart, they may cause chronic inflammation. Studies have shown that smokers are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. However, the symptoms may appear after several decades of exposure.
Exposed individuals will exhibit symptoms like chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
Mesothelioma
This is a rare type of cancer (aggressive in nature). Poor diagnosis can affect internal body organs. The common symptoms associated with Mesothelioma are stabbing pain in the chest, persistent cough, and difficulty breathing.
Other Health Issues
Other conditions linked to asbestos exposure are interstitial lung disease, pleural plague, chronic obstructive lung disease, and bronchitis.
Diagnostic and Medical Considerations
The common methods used to diagnose asbestos exposure include:
Imaging studies: a chest x-ray and CT scan to identify abnormalities. The presence of pleural plaques or pleural effusions shows that you’ve been exposed.
Biopsy: a needle is inserted in the pleural cavity to analyze the cellular structure. The samples are analyzed to identify the presence of tumors.
Legal Protections and Rights
If you have recognizable signs and symptoms or have been proven to suffer any health and financial damages due to exposure, you should follow the right channel to seek compensation. There are cases like worker’s compensation covering lost wages and medical expenses for individuals with asbestos-related diseases. There is also a personal injury lawsuit to prove that the exposure was a result of employer negligence.
Types of legal claims
Personal injury claims: individuals can file claims to prove that asbestos exposure was a wrongdoing by another party. The plaintiff must prove beyond reasonable doubt that the responsible party was negligent.
Wrongful death claims: surviving family members must prove that the death of their kin was a result of asbestos exposure. The responsible party can settle the claim to avoid litigation.
Role of an Asbestos Attorney
To be specific, the experiences of a New York asbestos attorney can help affected individuals navigate the legal system. Legal experts will assess your case, gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and file the claims. For complex cases, it is best to have legal representation to increase the chances of securing fair compensation.
Steps to Take if Affected
1. Immediate actions
If you’re experiencing symptoms associated with asbestos, you should seek immediate medical attention. Consider seeing a specialist to determine if you have a cancer-related condition. He will document the findings and extent of exposure.
2. Gather and preserve evidence
You should gather details to prove that you’ve been exposed to asbestos. This will be the basis when pursuing legal claims. The evidence should show how your health has been affected.
To ensure you get fair compensation, you should work with an experienced asbestos attorney. He will gather evidence and prepare your case to ensure you effectively pursue legal recourse.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing asbestos-related symptoms, you should seek medical and legal support for comprehensive care. Medical professionals will provide early diagnosis and treatment while a legal expert will negotiate fair settlements.
