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New York Mesothelioma Lawyer

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If you have worked as a boilermaker, a machinist, a firefighter, an industrial plant worker, an automotive plant worker, an iron worker, a carpenter, a plumber, a tile setter, in construction, at a shipyard, as a hairdresser, or even as a teacher, it is possible that you have been exposed to asbestos. If you have been exposed to asbestos, especially large amounts or over a prolonged period of time, you may be at risk for developing mesothelioma.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fiber that has been used in various in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including building products and automotive parts, as well as others. Asbestos was once wildly popular because it is heat resistant and is a fire-retardant. These properties are especially useful in products that are susceptible to high heat or fire.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that is diagnosed in approximately 2,000 to 3,000 people in the United States each year. This type of cancer affects the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a membrane which provides lining around the organs in the body, allowing them to move easily without rubbing against surrounding internal structures. The mesothelium is called the pleura around the lungs, the pericardium around the heart, and the peritoneum around the abdominal organs.

When mesothelioma occurs in the body, the cells of the mesothelium develop abnormally and can divide rapidly and without order. When this occurs, damage can occur not only to the mesothelium, but also organs near the affected area. As the cancer progresses, there is also the potential for it to metastasize to other regions of the body.

How can asbestos cause cancer?

Asbestos fibers do not evaporate in the air or dissolve in water, nor do they break down easily or quickly. When the fibers enter the air, such as when building materials containing asbestos are torn down or brake dust from a car is created, people may breathe it in. As it is breathed in, the body will cause people to cough or swallow, which will eliminate some of the fibers from the body. However, long, thin fibers of asbestos are harder to expire from the lungs and may enter the breathing tubes and become stuck, or penetrate the walls of the lungs and chest area. When this occurs, the mesothelium is damaged, which can lead to the development of mesothelioma.

What are signs of asbestos?

The early signs of asbestos are similar to, or the same as, the symptoms of many common ailments or illnesses. Symptoms of asbestos may include:

shortness of breath
pain in the lower back or side
nausea
vomiting
coughing
hoarse voice
abdominal swelling
weight loss
fatigue
difficulty swallowing
swelling of the face and arms
muscle weakness

How is mesothelioma treated?

Depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed, mesothelioma may be treated using surgery to remove tumors, as well as radiation and chemotherapy. Patients may also turn to alternative therapy or complementary treatments, as well as clinical trials, for treatment.

What to do if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma:

There are many occupations that put people at risk for prolonged asbestos exposure. In the event that you worked in an industry that exposed you to asbestos, and you were diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be able to make a claim against the company for which you worked. The government has strict regulations about the use of asbestos and safety precautions that are necessary if people are working with or around asbestos. If the company you worked for failed to comply with these regulations, they may be held liable for your injury.

Speak with an attorney in New York to find out how to proceed with a legal claim. A lawyer will review your case and guide you through the legal process. He or she will help you seek compensation to cover your medical expenses, as well as for any pain and suffering you may have endured as the result of your cancer.