5 Health Conditions Related to Asbestos

While asbestos was once known for its durability and heat-resistant properties, it is now known as a potent health hazard. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can remain in the body, leading to serious medical conditions over time. The most notorious diseases associated with asbestos exposure include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare and insidious form of cancer. These conditions do not manifest immediately but can take decades to develop, making them particularly life-threatening.

Being diagnosed with an asbestos-related health condition can cause intense physical, emotional, and financial distress, especially if someone else’s negligence caused your exposure. If you were exposed to asbestos and later developed a severe health condition, a skilled attorney may be able to help you pursue the justice you deserve for your losses. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., our renowned founding attorney, Joe Williams, has never lost a case and is ready to fight for justice on your behalf. He can meet you in the comfort of your home to begin work on your case so you can focus 100% of your energy on your health. 

5 Asbestos-Related Health Conditions

Asbestos exposure can cause many life-altering health conditions, including the following:

Asbestosis

Although it is not a type of cancer, asbestosis can cause long-term damage to the lungs. However, like many other asbestos-related conditions, it can take decades for symptoms to develop after exposure. Over time, asbestos fibers can cause scarring to the pleural tissue, resulting in symptoms like shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and skin with a bluish tint due to oxygen deprivation. 

Lung Cancer

Despite being primarily linked to tobacco smoke, lung cancer can also develop after prolonged exposure to asbestos. Some symptoms related to lung cancer include hoarseness, fatigue, and coughing up blood. If you suspect you have lung cancer, it is critical to see a medical professional as soon as possible to conduct X-rays and other diagnostic tests.

Pleural Mesothelioma

While the symptoms can be similar to lung cancer, mesothelioma is a different type of cancer that may not be detected until decades after the patient’s initial exposure. Instead of forming within the lung like lung cancer, pleural mesothelioma forms within the lining of the lung. Unfortunately, mesothelioma can be challenging to treat by the time symptoms manifest. 

Pleural Disorders

The pleura is the tissue that lines the chest cavity and the lungs. Asbestos exposure can cause thickened plaques and a buildup of fluid in the chest cavity. These conditions will show up on chest X-rays, but unlike mesothelioma and lung cancer, they are not malignant.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

While rare, mesothelioma can also develop in the abdomen. Peritoneal mesothelioma primarily impacts the abdominal wall, causing tumors to grow. These tumors often impact other organs and can be challenging to treat. Some symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include abdominal pain, anemia, and bowel obstruction.

Speak with a Skilled Asbestos Exposure Attorney at The Williams Law Firm, P.C.

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related medical condition, you do not have to fight for your right to compensation alone. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., our talented lead attorney, Joe Williams, understands the ins and outs of mesothelioma cases and can help you fight for the justice you deserve. Our team treats every case as our cause and will not rest until your rights and interests are protected. We have never lost a case and are here to recover the maximum amount of compensation available on your behalf. 

Schedule a free consultation today by calling (855) 575-6376 or completing our contact form.