Asbestos
Asbestos has long been a useful substance in everything from fire
blankets to brake shoes. A cluster of minerals, asbestos is something
that we all come into contact with. Asbestos can be found in the air as
well as in some water. But when humans are exposed to large amounts of
asbestos, that's when there can be harmful " and often deadly "
effects.
The Harmful Effects of Asbestos
Countless people have come to realize the harmful effects of asbestos.
There are many diseases that are a result of asbestos exposure. Some of
the harmful and deadly effects of asbestos include cancer, mesothelioma
and asbestosis. These diseases are
extremely painful
for the patient, as the lungs are one of the main parts of the body
that are affected by the asbestos exposure. In asbestosis, the body
produces acid to destroy tiny asbestos fibers in the lungs, but what
happens instead is the lung tissue gets scarred so badly that it is
possible that they can be damaged enough to stop working. Another
harmful effect of asbestos exposure is cancer. Most often people who
are exposed to asbestos suffer lung cancer.
Where Asbestos Exposure Occurs
Where asbestos exposure occurs is usually in the
workplace or in a
home
that was built before the mid-1980s. Before that time, asbestos were
thought to be a great flame retardant, so they were often found in the
insulation, ceilings and ducts of houses and buildings. Families who
lived in these houses were possibly exposed to asbestos for years. Now
these innocent people are starting to feel the effects and realize that
they were unknowingly living in a hazardous environment. The same is
the case for many people who worked in construction jobs.
Asbestos and Mesothelioma
One of the main reasons people get mesothelioma is because they were exposed to asbestos. People with mesothelioma
endure a lot of pain,
especially in the chest. Since mesothelioma is cancer of the
mesothelium, which is what lines the lungs and chest cavity, patients
might also experience blood clots, a collapsed lung and breathing
difficulties.
Contact an Asbestos Lawyer
People
suffering from mesothelioma can contact an asbestos lawyer to see what
can be done. Or if you know a close friend or family member who is
suffering from mesothelioma, you can also contact an asbestos lawyer
for information about the situation. A qualified and experienced
mesothelioma and asbestos lawyer will be able to discuss your case with
you and help you decide what to do next.
