Do I have Asbestosis?
Our Kansas Product Liability and workers’ compensation attorneys explain common symptoms of asbestos, complications that can arise, and people most at risk.
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease. It is caused by inhaling asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals composed of heat resistant fibers. It can prove debilitating, preventing you from working and limit your enjoyment of life. It can lead to life threatening asbestos-related lung cancers.
If you work in asbestos removal or in certain occupations, it is important to be aware of how asbestosis happens and the warning signs. Our experienced Kansas workplace accident attorneys and products liability attorneys can help evaluate if you have common symptoms of asbestosis, and the right to recover compensation for injury or death.
Who is at Risk for Asbestosis?
Prior to the 1970s, asbestos was used in a variety of consumer and commercial products. Once scientists discovered the links between asbestosis, cancer, and respiratory diseases in general, that began to change. In 1989, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) placed a partial ban on asbestos use and more restrictions have been added over the years. At the same time, it continues to be used in automotive manufacturing, roofing, and fireproofing materials and can still be found in older buildings, including schools.
In addition to those involved in the difficult and dangerous task of asbestosis removal, there are other types of workers who may be in danger of asbestos exposure. Those considered at high risk include:
- Construction workers
- Electricians
- Firefighters
- Heavy industrial workers
- Miners
- Ship builders
- Workers in the manufacturing industry.
Common Symptoms of Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a serious and potentially life threatening respiratory disease that is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. The American Lung Association warns that this can cause scarring of lung tissues, with long term effects that often do not appear until 10 to 40 years after exposure. Common symptoms of asbestosis include:
- Shortness of breath;
- A persistent dry cough;
- Tightness or pain in the chest;
- Wheezing or crackling sounds in the lungs while breathing;
- Unexplained weight loss;
- Widening or rounding of fingertips or toes, known as clubbing.
All of the above are indicators of reduced lung function due to asbestos. Complications that can occur as a result of the disease include asbestos-related lung cancers and respiratory failure.
How can I get local representation to help me get compensation for Asbestosis?
Discuss Your Case with Our Salina Kansas Attorneys
If you or a loved one have suffered injury or death from Asbestosis we can evaluate your claim and help you find compensation from existing funding put in place to help you. Corporations manufacturing asbestos have placed billions of dollars in court supervised Trust funds. We can help you collect the compensation you or your family deserves. We will associate with national firms, if necessary to help you collect the most compensation. You will have local representation to help you with forms, bills, legal and medical issues, and explain your compensation rights. Get full representation for no additional cost.
At Neustrom & Associates, we can guide you in seeking full and fair compensation. To discuss your case and how our Kansas Product Liability attorneys can help, call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.