Dealing with an asbestos illness is difficult, but we can make the legal road to compensation as smooth as possible

Many people with an asbestos illness have sought help from our firm's lawyers years after they were exposed to asbestos.

In fact, most people do not show any signs or symptoms of asbestos illness for 10 to 20 years or more after their exposure at a job or, for example, through the asbestos dust from the work clothes of a family member.

The most common asbestos-related illnesses are lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, however there are other cancers associated with asbestos, including gastrointestinal, colon and larynx. Here is a brief overview of some asbestos illnesses:

Lung Cancer:
Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that invades and obstructs the lung’s air passages. Cigarette smoking greatly increases the likelihood of a person developing lung cancer as the result of asbestos exposure. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer include coughing, hoarseness, wheezing, labored breathing, shortness of breath, persistent chest pain, and anemia.

Other symptoms can include weight loss, fever, chills, and night sweats. People who develop these symptoms do not necessarily have lung cancer, but they should consult a physician for advice. Most cases of lung cancer in workers occurred 15 years or more after the person was first exposed to asbestos.

Mesothelioma:
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the chest or abdomen. Most mesothelioma cases are caused by exposure to asbestos and are diagnosed 30 years or more after the first exposure. Signs and symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath or trouble breathing; unexplained weight loss; pain under the ribs; and pain, swelling, or lumps in the abdomen.

Asbestosis:
Asbestosis is a serious, progressive, long-term disease that causes scarring of the lungs. This scarring makes it hard for lungs to get oxygen into the blood. It restricts breathing and leads to smaller lung volume. Asbestosis is not a cancer. Signs and symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath (the primary symptom); a persistent and productive cough (a cough that expels mucus); chest tightness; chest pain; loss of appetite, and a dry, crackling sound in the lungs while inhaling.

Asbestosis generally progresses slowly, but the rate can vary greatly from one patient to another. Breathing can become more difficult as the symptoms progress over time.

As the disease progresses, shortness of breath becomes worse. After awhile, a person may require supplemental oxygen to carry out daily activities. The end result of the disease is lung and heart failure.

From shipfitters, pipefitters and demolition workers, to those toiling on railroads and in construction, Weitz & Luxenberg has many clients whose needless and entirely avoidable exposure to asbestos ultimately led to them developing asbestos-related illness.

Weitz & Luxenberg is a leading plaintiffs' law firm that has represented people affected by mesothelioma for over 20 years. Men and women diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their asbestos related disease. If you would like a free consultation or more information about your legal options, please complete the form on this page, and an representative of our law firm will contact you as soon as possible.