Exposure to asbestos can cause several different diseases. Some are cancers and other cause scars in and on the lungs, but each presents significant and unique challenges for those affected. Some of the most common diseases are:
Mesothelioma
Rare cancer – almost always caused by asbestos exposure – develops in the lining, or mesothelium, of internal organs, including the lungs, stomach, or heart. About 3,000 cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the U.S. annually, with the average age of diagnosis being 69.
The three forms of mesothelioma are:
Pleural Mesothelioma
The most common form accounts for approximately 70% of all those diagnosed with mesothelioma. Occurs in the “pleura,” or the lining over the lungs. Symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fluid build-up in the chest
- Weight loss
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal Mesothelioma occurs in the “peritoneum,” or the lining of the abdominal cavity. Symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Bowel obstruction
- Weight loss
Pericardial Mesothelioma
Pericardial Mesothelioma occurs in the “pericardium,” or the lining of the heart. Symptoms may include:
- Chest pain
- Cardiac problems such as arrhythmia, murmurs, and palpitations
- Fluid buildup in the heart
- Weight loss
Asbestosis
Scarring of delicate lung tissue. This chronic scarring can spread through the lungs and cause breathing problems. Asbestosis is not a type of cancer; however, being diagnosed with this means you may face a higher risk of developing cancer. The scarring of the lungs, called asbestosis, generally starts in the bases of the lungs. It can cause shortness of breath and can get worse. This scarring from asbestos can often be seen by doctors on chest x-rays or on chest CT scans. Asbestosis can also be seen under a microscope.
Pleural Effusions or Plaques
Pleural effusions (fluid on the lungs) or pleural plaques (scarring on the lining of the lungs) can make breathing difficult and cause chest pain.
Cancers
In addition to mesothelioma, asbestos exposure can cause several types of cancer, including lung, colon, esophageal, and laryngeal cancers. Since asbestos fibers are invisible, tasteless, and odorless, people often swallow them without knowing, creating issues in other regions of the body. If you have developed cancer and believe asbestos exposure is to blame, there are many tests available, including imaging and tissue biopsies, that allow medical professionals to evaluate the cause.
Affected by An Asbestos Related Disease in North Carolina?
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have an illness related to asbestos exposure, whether it occurred within or outside of North Carolina, please contact us online or call us at 336-502-6208. The law limits the timeframe to take action, so beginning the process swiftly is critical.
The experienced attorneys at Ward Black Law may be able to help you seek compensation from various sources. These can potentially include workers’ compensation benefits, as well as legal actions against any responsible parties to cover hospital bills, lost income, prescription medications, and more. We know this is an extremely difficult time and are prepared to advocate on your behalf.