Asbestosis is a lung disease caused by asbestos fibers that are trapped in the inner layers of the lungs. Not to be confused with mesothelioma, asbestosis is not a type of cancer and requires different treatments and palliative care.
In the beginning stages of asbestosis, scar tissue forms in the lungs. This is called “fibrosis.” This scar tissue then builds-up over time and reduces the lung’s ability to deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide. This impairment of lung function can sometimes add extra strain the heart, and it can even cause heart disease.
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with asbestosis, we can help. Contact us for a FREE legal consultation.
Inflammation is often the first sign of asbestos exposure, and it starts within hours or days after asbestos fibers are inhaled. These fibers can damage cells in a person’s lungs, causing severe inflammation. The inflammatory process can continue, even when asbestos exposure has been eliminated.
The inflammatory process of asbestosis may go undetected for decades causing no pain or respiratory symptoms. In many people, the process eventually produces breathing abnormalities and radiographic changes. Usually, the first symptoms are shortness of breath and a dry cough. These symptoms often precede abnormalities on chest x-ray or pulmonary function tests. The period between exposure and diagnosis may range from 10 to 50 years.
The initial symptoms of asbestosis can be shortness of breath or a dry cough. These symptoms may not manifest immediately, and not unlike the symptoms associated with mesothelioma, a patient may not be diagnosed with, or experience symptoms of asbestosis for years after the initial exposure.
No current treatments can cure asbestosis. Instead, doctors aim to improve a patient’s quality of life. These palliative care treatments could include surgery, medicines or alternative treatment methods.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with asbestosis, it’s critical to get to know your legal rights. You’ve already taken the first step by visiting this website. The next step is to contact an experienced team of asbestosis and mesothelioma attorneys who can help you get the best possible result.
The Barnes Firm’s best mesothelioma lawyers are here to help 24/7 if you have any questions.
We are always available to discuss your case. Give us a call at (800) 800-0000.
Fill out our form and we will contact you shortly to discuss your case
Our attorneys will come to your home, office or hospital at your convenience.
We are available anytime, including after hours and
weekends.
420 Lexington Avenue
Suite #2140
New York, NY 10170
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
600 Old Country Road
Suite #425
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
500 Pearl Street
Suite #700
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
451 Grider Street
Buffalo, NY 14215
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
28 East Main Street
Suite #600
Rochester, NY 14614
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
633 West 5th Street
Suite #1750
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
555 12th Street
Suite #1470
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
655 W. Broadway
Suite #940
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050