The Many Dangers of Asbestos Exposure: Are You at Risk?
On June 17, 2009, the EPA declared a public health emergency in the Montana towns, Libby and Troy, due to the results of an investigation showing an alarming rate of asbestos-related illnesses. The culprit, according to Dr. Buttery’s public health blog, is a vermiculite deposit contaminated with tremolite asbestos. Asbestos is well-known for causing mesothelioma—a type of cancer that affects the lungs, heart and abdomen—and asbestosis.
Prior to the ban of the use of asbestos in consumer products, asbestos could be found is a variety of products, including insulation, roofing materials, wallboard and paint. Strident efforts have been undertaken to remove asbestos from work places, homes and schools; however, symptoms of the deleterious effects of mesothelioma and asbestosis do not show up until long after exposure to contaminated products.
Though exposure may have occurred a long time ago, you may still have a legal remedy for the costs associated with your asbestosis-related disease.
General mesothelioma symptoms include:
- Persistent coughing;
- Shortness of breath;
- Coughing up blood;
- Chest pain;
- Abdomen pain;
- Fatigue; and
- Weight loss.
A less serious condition, asbestosis can still cause significant impairment and loss of earning capacity. Signs and symptoms develop when damage and scarring caused by the asbestos fibers lead to stiffness in lung tissue so much so that the lung fails to contract and expand normally. Symptoms include all of those associated with mesothelioma in addition to finger deformity (in some cases).
When exposed to asbestos—whether at work, school or in the home—you may not experience symptoms of mesothelioma or asbestosis until months or even years after exposure. Don’t assume that it is too late to bring a workers’ compensation or personal injury suit, call the experienced TN personal injury attorneys at Baker Associates to learn more about your legal options.
