Mesothelioma is a rare cancer affecting the lining of the lung or abdomen. Since 1960, the only cause of mesothelioma has been exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is commonly used in industrial products, such as cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products and insulation. As tiny asbestos particles float into the air, individuals may inhale or swallow the particles, which lodge in the lungs and cause serious health problems.
Asbestos was commonly added to many industrial and household products from the 1900s to the 1980s. Unfortunately, individuals exposed to asbestos may not notice symptoms for many years. Even today, and despite restrictions on its use, asbestos continues to be used in heat and acoustic insulation, fire proofing, and roofing and flooring.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms may not appear until 30 to 50 years after your asbestos exposure.
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma, fluid accumulation in the lungs, include:
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in the chest
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma, fluid accumulation in the abdomen, include:
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Bowel obstruction
• Blood clotting abnormalities
Symptoms of Mesothelioma in other areas of the body include:
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swelling of the neck or face
The single greatest risk factor for developing mesothelioma is asbestos exposure which increases as the amount of exposure and length of time of exposure continues. Not all individuals exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma, and some can develop the disease with no exposure to asbestos.
Of course, early detection and diagnosis is key to successful treatment, particularly since Mesothelioma progresses through different stages. In the early stages, mesothelioma is found in the chest cavity lining, the lining of the lungs or the abdominal cavity lining. As mesothelioma progresses, it may spread to the lymph nodes, diaphragm, or other organs and tissues.
How Asbestos Exposure Affects Your Family
Some evidence suggests that family members living with individuals exposed to asbestos may themselves be at increased risk for developing mesothelioma, due to asbestos dust carried home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers.
The Yost Legal Group Fights for Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos in Maryland, we can help you file a claim seeking compensation for:
• Medical bills
• Current or future lost wages
• Previous or future lost earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of consortium
The experienced personal injury attorneys at The Yost Legal Group are extremely experienced in pursuing asbestos exposure claims. Personal injury attorneys specialize in protecting the rights of individuals injured physically or psychologically due to another’s negligence. From evaluating your case and investigating the facts to determining the best course of action and vigorously fighting for your rights in court, we use our network of environmental professionals and experts in the field of asbestos litigation to prove negligence and liability on the part of a manufacturer or employer. And we offer you and your family the financial and emotional support you so desperately need during this difficult time.
To find out more about how you and your loved ones might be affected by exposure to this deadly product, please contact The Yost Legal Group today to schedule your free case evaluation. There is never any cost to you until we win a recovery. Call The Yost Legal Group today and speak to an attorney for a free initial consultation about your case at 1-800-YOST-LAW (1-800-967-8529).