
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. These microscopic fibers can lodge in lung tissue, causing scarring and reducing the lungs’ ability to function properly. Over time, this condition can lead to severe respiratory issues and even fatal complications. Asbestosis is directly linked to prolonged exposure to asbestos, often in workplace environments like construction and shipping yards.
The disease is progressive, meaning it worsens over time. People with asbestosis are also at increased risk of developing other asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. Understanding the causes and symptoms and also what the treatment options are for asbestosis is essential for those exposed to asbestos.
Causes of Asbestosis
The primary cause of asbestosis is long-term exposure to asbestos fibers. Common sources of exposure include:
- Occupational Hazards: Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, power plants, and mechanics and electricians (especially those who worked before the 1970s) are at a higher risk.
- Secondary or Secondhand Exposure: Family members of workers exposed to asbestos can also be affected by fibers brought home on clothing.
- Environmental Exposure: Living near asbestos mines or facilities that process asbestos can also lead to exposure.
Recognizing the First Signs of Asbestosis
Early diagnosis is crucial for managing asbestosis. Symptoms typically develop years after exposure, making it difficult to detect in its initial stages. Common signs include:
- Persistent dry cough
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Chest tightness or pain
- Fatigue and reduced stamina
- Nail deformities
If you’ve worked in an asbestos-exposed environment and experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Stages of Asbestosis
In the early stage, the asbestos fibers get trapped in the lungs, causing irritation and inflammation. Over time, this leads to scarring of the lung tissue, known as fibrosis, which makes it harder to breathe.
As the disease progresses, people may experience more severe symptoms, like wheezing, fatigue, and chest tightness. In the later stages, asbestosis can severely impair lung function, leading to difficulty in daily activities and even respiratory failure in some cases. It’s estimated that asbestosis affects around 20% of individuals heavily exposed to asbestos, and its symptoms can take decades to appear, often showing up 30-40 years after exposure.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and slow the disease’s progression, making it important for anyone with a history of asbestos exposure to get regular check-ups.
Is Asbestosis Treatable and Can You Recover?
While there is no cure for asbestosis, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Oxygen Therapy: Helps improve breathing by delivering supplemental oxygen.
- Medications: Prescriptions for antibiotics, antifibrotics and inhalers can alleviate symptoms. Pain medications help to manage the pain and inflammation.
- Drinking Plenty: This helps to thin secretions and keep airways clear.
Early diagnosis and proactive management can significantly slow the disease’s progression.
Recovery from asbestos exposure depends on the level and duration of exposure. While the damage caused by asbestosis is irreversible, treatments can manage symptoms and prevent further complications. Light asbestos exposure rarely causes disease, and a one-time event, such as during a DIY renovation, is not considered too much of a risk. However, repeated short-term exposures to asbestos can build up over time. For those exposed to asbestos, regular medical checkups are vital to monitor lung health.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy for someone with asbestosis varies depending on the severity of the disease. Many with mild to moderate asbestosis can live for several decades with proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding further exposure to asbestos, quitting smoking, and managing symptoms with medications or oxygen therapy.
While asbestosis itself is not typically fatal, it can increase the risk of other serious conditions, such as lung cancer or mesothelioma. Early diagnosis and actively managing the symptoms are crucial for improving and potentially extending life expectancy.
Can You File a Lawsuit for Asbestosis?
Victims of asbestosis may be able to claim for various forms of compensation. This can include coverage for medical expenses, such as treatments, medications, and hospital stays, as well as for lost wages due to not being able to work. Compensation can also be claimed for pain and suffering to account for physical and emotional distress. In cases where the disease leads to death, families may file wrongful death claims to receive financial support for their loss.
Individuals diagnosed with asbestosis may also seek compensation through mesothelioma trust funds, which were established by bankrupt asbestos companies to provide financial aid to victims. Furthermore, lawsuits can be filed against employers, manufacturers, or property owners who failed to warn or protect workers from asbestos exposure, holding them liable for negligence and ensuring victims and their families receive the financial support they deserve.
Typical Asbestosis Settlement Amounts
Settlement amounts for asbestosis cases vary based on factors such as:
- The severity of the disease
- The extent of the exposure
- The liability of the defendant
- The impact on the victim’s quality of life
Many settlements range from $1 million – $1.4 million or more, providing substantial relief for victims and their families.
How to File an Asbestosis Lawsuit
Filing a lawsuit for asbestosis involves several steps:
- Consult an Attorney: Work with an experienced asbestosis attorney who specializes in asbestos-related litigation.
- Document Evidence: Collect medical records, employment history, and any documentation of asbestos exposure.
- File a Claim: Your attorney will file a claim against the responsible parties, which may include employers, manufacturers and property owners.
- Settlement or Trial: Many cases result in settlements, but some proceed to trial for higher compensation.
The Legal Process: What to Expect
Here’s what you can anticipate when working with our team:
- Free Consultation: We’ll evaluate your case and discuss your legal options.
- Case Preparation: Our attorneys will gather evidence, consult medical experts, and build a strong case.
- Claim Filing: We’ll file your lawsuit and negotiate with the defendants.
- Settlement or Trial: Most cases settle out of court, but we’re prepared to go to trial if needed.
Let Shrader & Associates Help You
At Shrader & Associates, we understand the devastating impact asbestosis can have on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with asbestosis, we’re here to help.
With decades of experience and a proven track record in asbestos litigation, we provide compassionate and effective legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward justice.