Asbestos Exposure Can Cause Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a very aggressive form of cancer that most often affects the lungs. It’s usually caused by asbestos and other types of materials that can get into the lungs when a person breathes them in, and it’s most often deadly. Anyone who thinks that they’ve been exposed to asbestos should seek medical attention to be checked out. Everyone with a risk of exposure should be aware of what mesothelioma is and where you’re likely to find it.

What Is Mesothelioma?

Although mesothelioma isn’t as common as many other forms of cancer, this particular type of lung cancer is particularly aggressive, and it’s quite often deadly. Although symptoms of mesothelioma might not show up until years after exposure, there are some common signs that you can be on the lookout for, including shortness of breath, chest pain and buildup of fluid if the mesothelioma is in the lungs. This is one of the most common areas where you can get mesothelioma.

You might also get mesothelioma in the stomach or intestines. This usually happens if a person repeatedly swallows asbestos dust. Symptoms for this kind of mesothelioma include abdominal pain, bowel obstruction and a buildup of fluid that causes swelling.

Where You Might Find Asbestos

Researchers are a lot more aware of the dangers of asbestos than they were several decades ago, so you’re less likely to come into contact with asbestos. Unfortunately, the U.S. is one of the few industrialized nations that doesn’t have a complete ban on asbestos. In fact, it’s often still used in roofing and other types of materials. You can also still find it in some older buildings, especially in tiles, plumbing, drywall, ceilings and insulation. There are several types of buildings that this material is often found in, including homes, schools, hospitals and churches.

You should always be aware of potential exposure to asbestos and the possibility to developing mesothelioma. If you think that you might have had exposure to asbestos, you should learn where you might have been exposed and contact an attorney about seeking compensation.