Mesothelioma Lawyer
Symptoms of Asbestosis
Asbestos, in addition to mesothelioma, can cause the lung disease asbestosis. Like mesothelioma and other cancers called by exposure to asbestos, asbestosis frequently does not cause any problems until decades have passed. Once large areas of the lungs have been scarred by the microscopic fibers, symptoms may start to appear.
Shortness of breath is the first symptom or indicator that a person will notice. This symptom initially occurs only after exercise or some other form of physical activity, but with time and the progression of the disease, will occur after ordinary activities and become more noticeable. A person may realize that the flight of stairs that used to be easy to climb now leaves him or her short of breath and panting. In addition to the lack of breath, a dry cough and wheezing may also be experienced by individuals in the first stages of asbestosis.
When a person with asbestosis experiences difficulty breathing, it is typically due to an accumulation or build-up of fluid in the lungs. An individual that also is a smoker with chronic bronchitis can also experience coughing and wheezing. With time and a lack of treatment, breathing becomes increasingly difficult. Approximately 15% of individuals who have been diagnosed with asbestosis experience severe shortness of breath and respiratory failure.
As the disease progresses, the symptoms become worse. In later stages, chronic or recurrent respiratory infections are not uncommon. Coughing up blood, like tuberculosis, is also not rare. Other later-stage symptoms of asbestosis include:
- Swollen feet, hands, and ankles
- Persistent pain in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Sleeping restlessly
Contact an Asbestosis Lawyer
If you have been diagnosed with asbestosis or another disease related to asbestos exposure, contact the asbestosis lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 1-800-781-3955.
