Asbestos is a mineral that occurs. Naturally, that was widely employed in building materials before the 1970s. Nonetheless, asbestos fiber exposure can cause major health problems such as lung disease, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. You must act immediately if you believe you’ve been poisoned by asbestos. In this post, we’ll go over how to tell whether you’ve been exposed to asbestos and what measures to take next.
Understanding Asbestos Exposure
How Asbestos Exposure Occurs
When a person inhales or consumes asbestos fibers, they are exposed to the mineral. These fibers have the potential to accumulate in the lungs or other organs, where they can eventually lead to severe health issues. Asbestos exposure can happen in several ways, including:
- Working with products containing asbestos.
- Living near industries or mines that produce asbestos.
- Asbestos-containing structures should be renovated or demolished.
- Using asbestos-containing home goods.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure can result in several health issues, including:
- Lung cancer: Asbestos fibers inhaled can induce inflammation, scarring, and alterations in the DNA of lung cells, eventually leading to cancer. It is crucial to highlight that asbestos-related lung cancer can arise in people that have never smoked or have just smoked a modest quantity.
- Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is an uncommon and dangerous cancer that affects the lung, chest, or abdominal lining. It is nearly entirely caused by asbestos exposure.
- Asbestosis: is a chronic lung condition that can result in lung scarring and difficulty breathing. It is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, which can become stuck in the lungs and cause irritation and damage over time. Asbestosis can occur after only a brief asbestos exposure, and the severity of the illness varies depending on the quantity and length of exposure.
Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
When someone has been exposed to asbestos, symptoms may not appear for several years. The following are some of the most typical signs of asbestos exposure:
- Breathing difficulty.
- Chest discomfort.
- Ongoing coughing.
- Fatigue.
- Having trouble swallowing.
- Bruising on the face or neck.
Identifying Asbestos-Containing Materials
Common Building Materials That Contain Asbestos
Before its health concerns were recognized, asbestos was often utilized in various building materials. The following are a few of the most typical building supplies that might contain asbestos:
- Insulation
- Roofing supplies
- Carpet tiles
- Sheet and pipe cement
- Paint and coatings with texture
- Insulation for HVAC ducts
Factors to Detect Items Containing Asbestos
Without the right knowledge and tools, it can be difficult to recognize items that contain asbestos. Nonetheless, some widespread indicators that a substance could include asbestos include:
- Age: Asbestos is more likely present in materials placed before the 1980s.
- Appearance: Materials that contain asbestos may be brittle or puffy in appearance or gray, brown, or white in hue.
- Labeling: Several items, such as insulation, may be labeled as containing asbestos.
Hiring a Professional to Identify Asbestos
A certified asbestos inspector should be contacted to find any asbestos materials if you believe you have been subjected to them. An asbestos inspector can evaluate your house or place of business and collect samples of items that might contain asbestos. Also, they may offer advice on safely removing or enclosing any asbestos-containing materials.
Taking Action After Asbestos Exposure
Seeking Medical Attention
Getting medical assistance right away is critical if you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, tests may be done to determine this, and a doctor can treat any resulting health issues.
Notifying Your Employer or Landlord
You should contact your employer or landlord immediately if you think you may have been exposed to asbestos at work or while renting a home. They may need to take action to get rid of or enclose any asbestos-containing items as part of their obligation to ensure a secure working or living environment.
Making an Attorney Contact
You might be eligible for compensation if you were exposed to asbestos due to another person’s carelessness, such as a manufacturer or employer. You can speak with knowledgeable asbestos lawyers like Belluck & Fox attorneys who are ranked the best lawyers in America by US News. They can assess your situation and explain your legal alternatives to you.
Conclusion
Although asbestos exposure can result in major health issues, the dangers can be reduced by recognizing and treating it early. It is crucial to seek medical assistance and contact an experienced asbestos inspector if you think you may have been exposed to asbestos. Following these procedures, you can safeguard your health and prevent additional asbestos exposure.
