If you have an asbestos-related illness and you believe it was from workplace exposure to asbestos, we would be glad to help you get the justice you are entitled to. Our Buffalo asbestosis lawyers would be honored to represent you. Please don’t hesitate to call our office today to schedule a free consultation with us. We will even come to you to make this process easier.
Symptoms of Asbestosis
You may not feel any symptoms from asbestos exposure until years afterward, and many people do not exhibit symptoms for decades. Once symptoms do arise, it is a sign to get to your doctor right away.
You may have a dry cough that does not go away if you have asbestosis. Your fingertips may begin to look clubbed over time. When you take a breath in, you may hear or feel crackling sounds. Two other respiratory symptoms include shortness of breath and a tight/painful chest.
We urge you to seek immediate medical care if you begin to experience any of these symptoms. While these symptoms can possibly point to other things, if you mention to your doctor you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, you can get appropriately screened.
What Causes Asbestosis?
Being exposed to asbestos is a known cause of health conditions such as asbestosis. No level of exposure to asbestos is considered safe, but someone who is exposed to large amounts for a long time is at a higher risk of developing health issues.
The fibers from asbestos (which is a naturally occurring mineral) break down into tiny, inhalable particles that can become lodged in your lungs, more specifically, the small sacs in your lungs called the alveoli. The scarring that asbestos causes are the reason why many people are sick.
Please keep reading to learn more about the diagnosis process.
Diagnosis
As mentioned above, the symptoms of asbestosis are seen in other conditions, which is why it is important to tell your doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos.
When you go see your doctor for an exam, let them know about your symptoms and your exposure risk. Initially, they will listen to your lungs. If there are abnormal findings during your initial exam, you may be sent for more screenings, such as an x-ray of your chest or a CT scan.
Another way to determine your diagnosis is the use of a pulmonary function test. This test will let your doctor know how well your lungs are working. If the results are abnormal, it can indicate a condition.
Some doctors will want to get a look inside your lungs to search for asbestos fibers. There are two methods: bronchoscopy and thoracentesis.
Talk to your doctor right away if you believe you have asbestosis.
Treatment Options
While treatment does not exist to repair the damage asbestos has done, there are treatments available to help you find relief from your symptoms and minimize complications.
To help manage your respiratory symptoms, you may undergo pulmonary therapy.
You may be considered a good candidate for lung surgery if you have severe asbestosis.
Schedule Your Free Consultation with Our Buffalo Asbestosis Lawyers
If you have been diagnosed with asbestosis and are looking for a way to get justice, we are here to help. We have been representing injured workers for decades. When you have a diagnosis you believe is linked to asbestos exposure at work, please give our Buffalo lawyers a call to schedule your free consultation, which we will gladly come to you to make this easy on you. We are dedicated to your fight for justice.