Mesothelioma from asbestos is an aggressive form of cancer of the mesothelial cells, most commonly those in the lining that covers the lungs (pleura). These cells exist in the lining (membrane) that covers the outer surface of our body organs.

What is the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma?

The majority of people with mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos at some time during their life and for most of them, there is no cure. Most exposures take place in the workplace, frequently in manufacturing and construction.

The personal injury attorneys at the Harman Law Firm are representing and coordinating lawsuits on behalf of patients who have contracted mesothelioma. Contact our firm today at (404) 554-0777 to learn your legal rights and if you are eligible for compensation.

Asbestos is a group of minerals that exist as fibers or bundles and can be found in soil or rocks and exist in many parts of the world naturally. Asbestos is made of silicon, oxygen and some other elements.

There are two main types of asbestos fibers:

• Serpentine asbestos – this is the most common type used in the industry. It is known as white asbestos, or chrysotile. The fibers are curly.
• Amphibole asbestos – these include anthophyllite, amosite, actinolite, crocidolite, and tremolite. The fibers are straight, like needles.

Medical News Today reports that experts say that prolonged exposure to asbestos particles is the primary cause of mesothelioma. The risk of developing the disease is closely linked to asbestos particle dosage, i.e. the likelihood of developing mesothelioma is directly proportional to how long a person was exposed, and how much they inhaled. Although asbestos is much less used today than it used to be, exposure is still possible, and continues to be a serious problem. Older materials containing asbestos can break down, releasing a dust composed of tiny particles than can be inhaled or ingested. Exposure can occur when older buildings are demolished or renovated.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mesothelioma kills over 2,700 people in the USA every year.

If you have any of the symptoms below and have not seen your doctor, make an appointment to go immediately before your lungs become further compromised.

Some common side effects of mesothelioma are:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing, often painful
• Unexpected and unexplained loss of weight
• Pain under the rib cage
• Sometimes lumps may be detectable under the skin in the chest area
• Lower back pain
• Discomfort in the side of the chest
• Exhaustion
• Some people may experience sweating, fever, or difficulty swallowing
• Swelling/lumps in the abdomen
• Nausea, some patients may experience vomiting
• Low blood pressure
• Fluid retention (edema), often in the legs
• Heart palpitations
• Fatigue extreme after light exertion
• Chest pain

If you or someone you know have been exposed to asbestos and have developed Mesothelioma, contact the attorneys at the Harman Law Firm to learn your legal rights and if you are eligible for a lawsuit or potential compensation.  Contact the Harman Law Firm today or call (404) 554-0777.

The Harman Law Firm represents individuals who have been injured or the families of victims who died by the negligence or wrongdoing of individuals, businesses or organizations.