Asbestos exposure risks include developing asbestosis, a scarring of lung tissue.

Asbestosis is a lung disorder caused by exposure to dangerous asbestos fibers and dusts.

When asbestos fibers accumulate in your lungs, it can lead to the scarring of lung tissue and diminished breathing capacity.

The effects of asbestos exposure do not typically present themselves until 20 to 30 years after you have been exposed to asbestos.

Signs and symptoms develop when damage and scarring caused by the asbestos fibers lead to stiffness in your lung tissue, causing the lungs to stop contracting and expanding normally.

Asbestosis symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath both with and without physical exertion
• Decreased tolerance for physical activity
• Coughing
• Chest pain
• Clubbing of the fingers

Normally, microorganisms, dust and other foreign particles in the air are removed by microscopic hairs on the surface of your airways called cilia. The cilia sweep the particles into your upper airway, where the particles are swallowed into your digestive system, trapped in your nose hairs or expelled when you cough. Unfortunately, asbestos fibers are difficult to destroy and remain in the lungs.

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 disease. If you would like a free consultation or more information about your legal options, please complete the form on this page, and a representative of our law firm will contact you as soon as possible.