Asbestos & Mesothelioma Law Blog
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was once widely used across the United States in several industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive, mainly because of its heat-resistant properties. After its effects became widely known, asbestos use became heavily regulated. Asbestos can cause serious health issues. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Often, these diseases don’t develop until many years after asbestos exposure. Understanding how long it can take asbestos-related illnesses to develop is important for those who may have been exposed to this dangerous mineral at work, at home, or in the environment.
How Do Asbestos-Related Diseases Develop?
Generally, asbestos is not harmful when left undisturbed. However, when disturbed or damaged, its fibers can become airborne and inhaled (most common) or ingested (less common). These tiny fibers can become lodged in the lungs, pleura (the lining surrounding the lungs), or other tissues. Over time, these fibers can cause scarring, inflammation, and cellular damage, leading to serious illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Asbestos-related illnesses pose a significant health risk.
How Long Does it Take Asbestos-Related Diseases to Develop?
A notable aspect of asbestos-related diseases is their long latency period. The latency period is the time between the initial exposure to asbestos and the appearance of symptoms. Generally, it can take years before symptoms of asbestos-related diseases appear. The latency period for asbestos-related diseases typically ranges from 10 to 50 years after initial exposure. This means that exposure to asbestos fifty years ago can still lead to disease development today. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive type of cancer, is particularly known for its long latency period.
However, it’s vital to note that the exact time it takes for an asbestos-related illness to show symptoms depends on several factors, such as the type of illness, the level and duration of exposure, the age of the affected person, and other individual health factors. For instance, higher levels and longer periods of asbestos exposure typically result in faster disease progression. Regarding age, younger individuals generally have a longer latency period before the onset of symptoms.
Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Diseases
Different asbestos-related illnesses have different symptoms, but often, they manifest as respiratory issues. Some common symptoms of asbestos-related diseases include;
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Chest pains
- Unexplained weight loss
- Build-up of fluid in the lungs
- Tiredness
Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the lungs (peritoneal mesothelioma). Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include;
- Abdominal swelling
- A painful mass in the pelvic area
- Fluid build-up in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bowel obstructions
- Loss of appetite
Because the symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses may mimic other conditions, regular medical checkups and monitoring are crucial for people who have been exposed to asbestos in the past. Qualified medical professionals can help detect asbestos-related illnesses early. Detecting an asbestos-related illness early can extend life expectancy.
If diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, there may be legal options. An attorney can provide guidance on available legal options.
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 live a more comfortable life.