Most people think that they will know if they are exposed to asbestos. Unfortunately, it can take years to detect harmful consequences of asbestos exposureand the outcome can be catastrophic.
Asbestos is defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “a mineral fiber that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant.” Due to the risk of asbestos, the EPA has banned several products that contain this mineral fiber, but it can still be found in older homes and furnace insulation materials.
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health complications, including an illness known as asbestosis. This potentially serious medical condition affects breathing and is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. When asbestos is inhaled for a prolonged period of time, the fibers can accumulate in the lungs, leading to scarring of lung tissue and diminished breathing capacity.
Typically, signs of asbestosis do not surface until years after being exposed to asbestos. However, once asbestosis symptoms begin, the condition can become worse and may result in disability or death. This serious breathing disorder is irreversible.
Some of the other health effects associated with asbestos exposure include chest and abdominal cancers and lung disease. The risk of developing one of these ailments increases with smoking.
The majority of people who experience asbestos-related illnesses were exposed at their work or in a home that had asbestos.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and have developed asbestosis or some other severe illness, you need to contact a Florida injury lawyer at the law offices of Lilly, O’Toole & Brown, LLP at (863) 683-1111. We will be able to review your case to determine who is responsible for your asbestos exposure. Contact us today for a legal consultation.