Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Blog
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is generally caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a group of minerals that form naturally in the environment as bundles of fibers that are resistant to heat, fire and chemicals. Unfortunately, inhaling or swallowing just one of these fibers can cause the malignant cancer known as mesothelioma. Symptoms associated with mesothelioma can occur slowly, and may not appear until 15-50 years after exposure. Every year across the United States, an estimated 2,500 to 4,000 patients are diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma usually attacks the outer linings of the lungs or chest cavity, the belly, the sac around the heart or the bowels. This terminal cancer has been known to cause a “pneumothorax,” which is a complete collapse of the lung. There is no known cure for mesothelioma, and sadly, most patients diagnosed with this cancer are given less than a year to live.
Identifying the point of exposure to asbestos can be very difficult as the long latency period makes it tough for patients to accurately remember where or when they may have been exposed to asbestos particles in the air. For the most part, cases of mesothelioma have been linked to asbestos exposure in the workplace. Asbestos exposure can result from performing the following activities in the workplace:
• Insulating Pipes
• Milling or Mining Materials
• Continual Maintenance of Railroad or Automotive Brakes
• Handling Roof Shingles, Flooring Materials, Cement Gaskets and Similar Products
• Fireproofing Ships and Buildings
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging as symptoms are non-specific and can be indicators of other minor health problems. Symptoms of mesothelioma can include coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest or back pain, chronic hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and swelling of the face and arms. Many people experiencing symptoms similar to these believe they are suffering from a common cold and not something far more serious. The only way for a physician to properly diagnose mesothelioma is to perform an X-ray and CT scan of the chest cavity.
Mesothelioma is entirely preventable. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or have been exposed to asbestos, the Florida Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can help. As trial lawyers, we know that these cases require an extensive amount of investigation and research. We work with a team of experts and doctors to successfully prove asbestos injury cases. We fully understand the severity of these cases, and can help you and your loved ones obtain maximum compensation for your losses.
It is vital following a diagnosis for mesothelioma that you contact the Florida Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton to evaluate your situation and potential claim for compensation. For a complimentary consultation, we welcome you to contact us today online or call us statewide and toll-free at 1-866-608-5LAW (5529).