SYMPTOMS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE

If you suspect symptoms of asbestos exposure, see a physician immediately.

Asbestos exposure is an occupational hazard that leads to such lethal diseases as mesothelioma, asbestosis and asbestos-linked lung cancer. Asbestos diseases kill 10,000 individuals in the United States every year, so it is very important to see a doctor as soon as you exhibit symptoms that you suspect are related to asbestos exposure incidents in your past.

Certain symptoms are indicators of asbestos exposure

October 26, 2010 –Symptoms of asbestos exposure develop when damage and scarring, caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, lead to stiffness in lung tissue, so that the lungs can't contract and expand normally, a form of pulmonary fibrosis.

Asbestos exposure symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing
• Dry, crackling sound while breathing
• Chronic, persistent cough
• Constant chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty in swallowing
• A swelling of the face or neck
• Nausea
• Anemia
• Sudden fever, night sweats.

Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have an asbestos-related health problem. It could be some other problem not related to asbestos at all, but it is advisable to get it checked by your physician immediately.

These symptoms are similar to those of other breathing disorders, such as asthma, but the effects of the disease occur over months and even years. Due to the long asbestos latency period associated with mesothelioma and asbestosis, the symptoms of long-term asbestos exposure usually don't show up for at least 20 to 30 years, and sometimes even 50 years after the initial asbestos exposure.

One of the first symptoms of asbestos exposure is shortness of breath during physical exertion. As the condition worsens, shortness of breath may be experienced even when resting. Other symptoms of asbestos exposure include painful breathing and coughing.

Legal options

Every Weitz & Luxenberg asbestos cancer attorney understands the emotional and financial complexities of losing a family member to an asbestos-related cancer like mesothelioma – and exactly what is required to secure maximum compensation for the injured worker’s family.

Protect your family’s financial future today. Initiate a free and private legal review of your case through the communication form on this page. What you learn will help you make educated decisions during this important and difficult time.