Asbestos Exposure and Non-Malignant Lung Disease
Asbestos is a natural, heat-resistant mineral that is relatively harmless unless disturbed. However, when disturbed and the fibers are released, they can cause significant health problems.
Although we often associate asbestos with mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer, this is not the only lung disease that can arise from asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, various lung conditions could be linked to handling, inhaling, or ingesting asbestos fibers. Below, we explain how asbestos can cause lung disease and which lung conditions can be linked to exposure.
How Asbestos Exposure Can Cause Lung Disease
When asbestos is disturbed, the fibers enter the air. Once airborne, these fibers can be inhaled and settle into the lungs and surrounding tissue. If you are exposed to a high enough “dose” of asbestos frequently, then the fibers could, in time, cause scarring, inflammation, and lung damage.
Non-Malignant Lung Diseases Linked to Asbestos Exposure
Three non-malignant lung conditions are most linked to asbestos exposure: pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and asbestosis.
Pleural Plaques
Pleural plaques are localized areas of thickened lung tissue. They do not cause symptoms or harm, and they’re often found incidentally on imaging such as CT scans. However, although they are harmless, they do indicate asbestos exposure, which means you could develop further asbestos-related conditions over time.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a type of lung scarring or damage. When scar tissue forms on the lungs, it causes them to stiffen up, making it harder for you to breathe. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, finger clubbing, wheezing, and a dry cough.
Pleural Thickening
Pleural thickening affects the pleura or the tissue surrounding the lungs. It is like asbestosis because it involves scarring and inflammation of the lung tissue, and the symptoms are very similar. However, it can develop after lower levels of exposure – asbestosis is typically associated with higher exposure levels.
Pleural thickening can be localized and only found around one lung, or it could be diffuse and spread, affecting both lungs.
Lung disease associated with asbestos takes years, or even decades, to develop. But if you suspect lung disease from asbestos exposure, contact your doctor urgently. They will carry out investigations to determine what is causing your symptoms.
Compensation for Asbestos-Related Diseases
If another party, such as a corporate entity or employer, exposed you to asbestos, then you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. A personal injury claim is a civil lawsuit you can file when you’re hurt due to someone else’s negligent, reckless, or careless actions. Damages you can claim include medical expenses, lost income, and even funeral expenses, should the worst happen. We can review your case and explain if you have such a claim.
There are strict time limits for making personal injury claims. The exact time limits vary by state; however, in all cases, if you miss the deadline, you could lose your right to claim. Contact us promptly to discuss your case to protect your right to pursue justice.
Contact Our Experienced Asbestos Attorneys
Although we often associate asbestos exposure with mesothelioma, it’s important to remember that mesothelioma is not the only lung condition you may develop following exposure. If you develop lung disease after exposure to, or working with, asbestos, then contact Madeksho Law.
At Madeksho Law, we are committed to protecting the rights of Americans and our veterans. We care about holding negligent corporations and employers accountable and are passionate about securing the justice our clients deserve. If you were negligently exposed to asbestos and are unsure where to turn, we want to hear your story. Call 888-910-6376 now or complete our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.
