What are the hazards of asbestos?
Asbestos is well recognized as a health hazard and its use is now highly regulated by both OSHA and EPA. Asbestos fibers associated with these health risks are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Breathing asbestos fibers can cause a buildup of scar-like tissue in the lungs called asbestosis and result in loss of lung function that often progresses to disability and death.
Asbestos also causes cancer of the lung and other diseases such as mesothelioma of the pleura which is a fatal malignant tumor of the membrane lining the cavity of the lung or stomach. Epidemiologic evidence has increasingly shown that all asbestos fiber types, including the most commonly used form of asbestos, chrysotile, causes mesothelioma in humans.
In addition to lung cancer and mesothelioma asbestos exposure can also lead to the development of many other cancers including stomach, colon, and esophageal.
How are asbestos-related diseases detected?
Individuals who have been exposed (or suspect they have been exposed) to asbestos fibers on the job, through the environment, or at home via a family contact should inform their doctor about their exposure history and whether or not they experience any symptoms. The symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not become apparent for many decades after the exposure. It is particularly important to check with a doctor if any of the following symptoms develop:
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or hoarseness
- A persistent cough that gets worse over time
- Blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up from the lungs
- Pain or tightening in the chest
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling of the neck or face
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue or anemia
A thorough physical examination, including a chest x-ray and lung function tests, may be recommended. The chest x-ray is currently the most common tool used to detect asbestos-related diseases. Although chest x-rays cannot detect asbestos fibers in the lungs, they can help identify any early signs of lung disease resulting from asbestos exposure.
A lung biopsy, which detects microscopic asbestos fibers in pieces of lung tissue removed by surgery, is the most reliable test to confirm exposure to asbestos. A bronchoscopy is a less invasive test than a biopsy and detects asbestos fibers in material that is rinsed out of the lungs.
It is important to note that these procedures cannot determine how much asbestos an individual may have been exposed to or whether the disease will develop. Asbestos fibers can also be detected in urine, mucus, and feces, but these tests are not reliable for determining how much asbestos may be in an individual’s lungs.
Asbestos in Oregon
Many individuals believe they have to have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer to qualify for compensation from asbestos trusts. This is not the case. Any individual who spent a significant period working closely with asbestos may be eligible for compensation.
Our team works with you to get an exam of your lungs to check for scarring or other tissue damage that may come without any detectable symptoms. If you or someone in your family worked with asbestos, reach out to our team today. We will help you access the money you are eligible for that can help you to cover medical bills and other costs.
There are currently more than 30 billion dollars in asbestos trust fund claims waiting to be awarded to those who were exposed to this toxic material. Our law firm makes it simple for you to apply to the trusts that fit your specific history, so you can be compensated. There is no need to file a lawsuit or make any court appearances. We have streamlined the process to make it as simple as possible for railroad workers in Portland, OR, and surrounding areas.
Free Asbestos Exposure Consultation
At Sammons & Berry, P.C. our asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys want to help you get the money you deserve. This is why we offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation, so you can discuss the facts of your case without any upfront costs.
Asbestos trusts claims do not require a lawsuit, depositions, or courtrooms. The process is simple and easy for the client and should not require any stressful legal confrontations for the client. The law firm handles all of the claims for the client, helping you maximize your compensation.
We do not accept any payments from our clients until they receive compensation. We charge on a contingent fee basis, which means you pay a percentage of what you get paid in your claim. If we are unable to collect anything for you, there is no cost to you.
Wrongful Death Claims For Families of Asbestos Victims
If you have lost someone in your family due to complications from harmful asbestos exposure, you may be eligible for compensation. If you can provide the work history and a death certificate for your loved one, our attorneys can help you file an asbestos claim.
We understand how difficult this process can be, this is why we work with you every step of the way to help you get the money you deserve. There is a statute of limitations so do not wait to reach out to our team today to learn more about filing a claim for a family member.
See if you qualify for compensation
Sammons & Berry, P.C.
800-519-1440
Google Listing
Facebook
