If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, you might be eligible to file a legal claim against the party or parties responsible for the asbestos exposure and recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If the company responsible for the asbestos exposure declared bankruptcy, you may be eligible to file an asbestos trust fund claim. When it comes to asbestos and mesothelioma, there are several crucial things you need to know. This article discusses five of the most vital things you need to know about asbestos and mesothelioma.
Asbestos Has Been Used in Many Industries and Products
Because of its fiber strength and heat resistance, asbestos has been used in several industries. For example, it has been used in the construction and shipbuilding industry. Asbestos has been used in automotive and insulation manufacturing. This naturally-occurring mineral can also be found in, among others, the following materials and products:
- Cement
- Flooring materials, such as tiles
- Brake pads
- Hair dryers
- Appliances
- Cigarette filters
- Fake snow
- Makeup
- Children’s toys and crayons
Asbestos Exposure Can Occur Through Inhalation or Ingestion
Asbestos can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. Inhalation is the primary way through which people suffer asbestos exposure. A person may suffer asbestos exposure after inhaling air contaminated with asbestos fibers at work. Other exposure scenarios include inhaling air that is contaminated:
- While working in the same space as other people working with asbestos
- In areas neighboring a mining operation
On the other hand, ingestion can occur through, among other ways, the following:
- Drinking water contaminated with asbestos
- Eating biota contaminated with asbestos
It is also crucial to note that family members of asbestos workers can experience secondary asbestos exposure when the worker brings home asbestos fibers on their body.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The following are some of the symptoms of mesothelioma:
- Painful coughing
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling
There are Several Mesothelioma Treatments
There is still no cure for mesothelioma, but various treatment options exist. Possible treatments for mesothelioma include the following:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Radiotherapy
- Immunotherapy
A mesothelioma specialist should discuss these treatments with you.
Hire an Experienced Mesothelioma Lawyer
If you believe you are eligible to file a mesothelioma lawsuit or asbestos trust fund claim, it is vital that you hire an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. You will need to prove asbestos exposure and show that the exposure is linked to your or your loved one’s mesothelioma. It can be challenging to prove this on your own. A skilled attorney can help you gather strong evidence that can help you prove your case. An experienced lawyer can help you present your evidence in the best way possible.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.