Mesothelioma Attorney in Phoenix

You'd be surprised by the range of everyday products that might contain asbestos. That's despite the nationwide ban on numerous asbestos-containing products over three decades ago.

Older insulation materials used in homes and buildings, roofing shingles, and tiles are known to contain a certain degree of asbestos. This mineral was also commonly used in vehicle brake pads and linings, clutch parts, and gaskets. 

Some older household items like certain heat-resistant fabrics, fireproofing materials, and even some floor tiles could also contain asbestos.  

Today, asbestos can still be found in many places, especially in older buildings. Common spots include industrial sites like factories, shipyards, and construction sites. Asbestos concentration is especially higher in older structures. 

Schools and public buildings constructed before the 1980s might also contain asbestos materials. The same applies to homes built before this time. They may have insulation, roofing, and flooring that contain this carcinogen.

The signs of mesothelioma can be quite subtle at first. In most cases, they often resemble common illnesses, and that's why it's not that easy to tell you're infected during the early stages. 

Common symptoms include but are not limited to:

• shortness of breath;
• persistent cough;
• chest or abdominal pain;  
• unexplained weight loss; and
• fatigue or lumps under the skin on the chest. 

If you've had exposure to asbestos and notice these symptoms, you should get checked by a doctor right away. While at it, remember to mention your history of asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma has a notoriously long latency period. What this means is that it takes quite a long period, usually decades, to begin showing its symptoms. This delay can make both diagnosis and linking the disease to asbestos exposure challenging.

Currently, there's no known cure for mesothelioma. That also explains why it's such a serious illness. However, treatments (when started immediately after diagnosis) can help manage symptoms and potentially extend life expectancy.  

Speaking of treatment, you may need a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The specific approach depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Newer treatments, like immunotherapy, are also being explored but aren't as popular as the other three we've mentioned. 

A mesothelioma diagnosis isn't the end of the road; it's the beginning of a new journey. To learn more about your legal options, including how a Phoenix mesothelioma lawyer from our team might be able to help, contact us for a free case evaluation.