Asbestosis Symptoms

Asbestosis is a lung condition that results from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Prior to 1980, the construction, factory, and shipbuilding industries (along with many others) were deeply affected by the medical problems associated with asbestos. These health risks were originally unknown, but it later became apparent that asbestos was the cause of major illnesses such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Please see Occupations at Risk of Asbestos Exposure and Products Containing Asbestos for further information.

Asbestosis is one of the most common illnesses stemming from asbestos exposure. Most people who develop asbestosis do not notice the symptoms for 20 to 30 years after their initial exposure to asbestos. Because asbestos wasn't regulated until the 1980s, many people are currently finding out they have asbestosis. Although asbestosis can develop after a single exposure session, it is much more common to develop the disease after repeated exposure. For general information about this condition, please see Asbestos Overview.

Some of the most common symptoms of asbestosis are:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Pain when breathing
• Finger Clubbing
• Inability to do physical labor

These symptoms start slowly. At first, you may notice a shortness of breath during physical activity. Most people do not realize that chest pain and coughing is a symptom of asbestosis because it can be attributed to other conditions, such as a common cold or heartburn. As the symptoms intensify, it becomes difficult to breathe and impossible to do physical labor. If exposure to asbestos continues, the condition will often lead to death.

The biggest mistake people make regarding asbestosis is not seeing their doctor soon enough. With the proper care and removal of asbestos from your life, the condition will not worsen and can even improve. However, most people with asbestosis catch it in a very late stage. Talk to the doctor at the first sign of shortness of breath or chest pain. Please see Asbestosis Diagnosis for more information about the diagnostic process.

Remember, asbestos was commonly used in several construction-related occupations. Although asbestos is currently regulated, it was heavily used in the past. Demolishing old buildings or ships can bring the asbestos fibers to the surface and allow it to enter the body. Keep in touch with past and present news regarding asbestos. Many companies are now coming clean about the dangers they've presented to past employees and even some consumers. These companies are now settling to help asbestosis patients deal with medical costs, pain, and other expenses attained due to asbestos exposure. The good news is that if your case is documented by a physician, you have grounds for claiming some of that money. These funds were set up in order to help you, so take advantage of the opportunity.

If you believe someone is responsible for your asbestosis, but there are no settlements, talk to an asbestos lawyer right away. It's important to receive the money that you need for proper medical care. The first step should always be to see a doctor with experience in asbestos-related illnesses, but a close second step is to see a lawyer who can help with your lawsuit and ensure the best care possible.

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