Four Things to Do if You Have Been Exposed to Asbestos

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, asbestos is a mineral fiber that occurs in soil and rocks. Asbestos was widely used before the 1980s in, among other things, building materials. It was in the 1980s that the dangerous effects of this mineral became widely known. However, although asbestos is not commonly used today, it is still used in some products. Also, asbestos can be found in old buildings. This means that asbestos exposure remains a problem. Asbestos can cause various deadly diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

The following are four steps that should be taken after someone gets exposed to asbestos or if someone has a history of asbestos exposure.

Consult a Doctor Early

If a person has been exposed to asbestos or has a history of asbestos exposure, they need to consult a doctor early. Whether exposure happened at work or at home after someone brought home asbestos fibers, seeing a doctor without delay is of utmost importance. A medical professional can help determine a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease. Also, if a doctor knows about asbestos exposure, they can be able to monitor the person for symptoms.

Follow Up With Screening Tests

Apart from talking to a doctor about asbestos exposure, it is important for a person who has been exposed to asbestos or with a history of asbestos exposure to talk about being screened for mesothelioma and lung cancer. Early detection of asbestos-related diseases is quite crucial. When it comes to surviving asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma, the earlier a patient gets treatment, the better. Usually, people whose mesothelioma is detected while at stage 1 have a longer life expectancy than those whose mesothelioma is detected at a later stage.

Look Out for Symptoms of Asbestos-related Diseases

An asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma can take decades to develop. However, it is crucial for people who have been exposed to asbestos or have a history of asbestos exposure to be aware of the signs for which they need to be on the lookout. In regards to mesothelioma, the following are some of the symptoms:

• Dry cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever and sweating
• Swelling of the arms and face
• Muscle weakness

Prevent More Asbestos Exposure

There is not a safe level of asbestos exposure. However, the more a person is exposed to asbestos, the more the risk of developing an asbestos-related disease increases. Therefore, if a person has been exposed to asbestos or has a history of asbestos exposure, it is crucial that they do their best to prevent more asbestos exposure.

There are many potential asbestos-containing products, and knowing about them can help prevent more asbestos exposure. The following are some of the potential asbestos-containing products;

• Household appliances
• Automotive parts such as clutches, brake pads, gaskets, and hood liners
• Cement
• Textiles
• Tiles

Fortunately, compensation can be sought after someone develops an asbestos-related disease because of another party’s negligence. An attorney can help with seeking compensation.

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 pay for your medical treatment to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.