Asbestosis is a lung disease caused by asbestos exposure. It is a form of pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of the lungs. As the disease progresses it becomes harder and harder to breath. The lungs become stiff and lose their ability to exchange gases. Internal organs and the brain become oxygen starved. The heart is taxed by working harder to compensate for the lack of oxygen.
Asbestosis Treatment
By the time symptoms appear, asbestosis is normally very advanced and permanent damage has occurred. There is no cure for asbestosis and the scarring which has already occurred cannot be reversed, but the progression can be slowed. Some asbestosis patients enjoy improved quality of life by using oxygen. Rehabilitation can improve the ability to breathe.
Accurate Diagnosis
Asbestosis is just one of many types of pulmonary fibrosis. If you know or believe that you may have been exposed to asbestos and you are diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, it is important that you talk to your doctor about getting a more specific diagnosis. If your doctor claims that there is no way to know if asbestos exposure caused your pulmonary fibrosis, talk to another doctor.
If you have asbestosis you are at high risk for developing mesothelioma, and should talk to your doctor about testing for mesothelioma as soon as possible. Early detection significantly increases your chance of extending your life for several years and enjoying a much better quality of life with mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma or any asbestos-related illness, please call or submit an online questionnaire. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if our Ohio mesothelioma attorneys agree to handle your mesothelioma claim, they will work on a contingent fee basis, which means they only get paid for their services if there is a monetary recovery of funds. In many cases, a lawsuit must be filed before the expiration of the statute of limitations. Please call our Ohio mesothelioma attorneys right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.