The health risks associated with asbestos

Unfortunately, asbestos exposure is still a danger for most Kentucky employees as the health hazard appears in building materials, floor tiles, insulation for pipes and other common materials on construction sites.

However, some people still don’t know the health ramifications of long-term asbestos exposure. Some of the most serious side-effects include:

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is the consequence of indirect or direct exposure to asbestos. It usually attackers the lower digestive tract and the lining of the lungs, and there is no known cure at the moment. The best strategy is to catch it early on and treat the symptoms before the lining covers many of the body’s vital organs. The most dangerous aspect of this diagnosis is its commonality – over 1.3 million workers are exposed to significant amounts of asbestos.

Asbestos-related lung cancer

Similar to Mesothelioma, lung cancer is also a potential consequence of asbestos exposure, but it is harder to connect back to direct or indirect exposure to asbestos. There are so many possible causes for lung cancer that doctors would have a hard time pinpointing if asbestos was the sole reason. However, it’s important to know that it’s a potential risk with asbestos.

Pleural thickening

Asbestos hits the lungs the hardest, and it’s obvious is due to the risk of mesothelioma and pleural thickening – a condition that makes your lungs’ lining thicken and swell. It causes severe discomfort in the chest and results in poor breathing for most adults. It isn’t necessarily fatal, but it’s an indicator of underlying health issues on the horizon.

If there are concerns of a current medical condition is due to asbestos exposure, you may want to seek a legal claim to cover the costs of medical treatments and lost wages. But do not wait to seek treatments if you suspect mesothelioma. Your life may depend on a quick diagnosis.