Asbestosis

Exposure to asbestos can cause a number of adverse health complications, pleural disorders and serious diseases. Asbestosis – also known as interstitial fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, or interstitial lung disease – is one of the most common asbestos-related diseases. Asbestosis is a progressive and long-term disease of the lungs caused by inhaling asbestos fibers that irritate, inflame and scar lung tissues. The scarring can make it difficult to breathe and difficult for oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass through the lungs. In some cases, asbestosis can also lead to heart failure.

Asbestosis is diagnosed by a signature sound in the lungs, known as basal crackles or rales, and by X-ray images that show specific irregularities. Diminished lung volume and flow may also signify asbestosis. Sometimes clubbing of the fingers and toes can be observed. The latency period for the onset of a confirmed asbestosis diagnosis is at least 10 – 20 years after the initial exposure, although some cases of asbestosis can develop fully in as little as seven years.

Effects of the disease can vary from no symptoms or mild symptoms to disabling and potentially fatal. The disease may remain unchanged, but it is progressive due to accumulating damage caused by asbestos fibers in the lungs.

As the disease progresses, shortness of breath can become more pronounced. It may eventually interfere with the ability to carry out everyday activities, and individuals may also require oxygen. Individuals with asbestosis also have an increased risk for developing mesothelioma, lung cancer and other cancers associated with asbestos exposure.

Suffering from asbestosis? Contact an asbestos lawyer for Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Washington, D.C.

Our legal team been engaged in asbestos litigation for decades. Having represented numerous families and a wide variety of cases throughout the years, our legal team is uniquely equipped to handle asbestosis cases.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos or are suffering from asbestosis, contact Peter Angelos, P.C. to learn how we can help.