A persistent dry cough can often be dismissed as a symptom of seasonal allergies, a lingering cold, or even the result of air pollution. However, for some individuals, it can be a sign of something far more serious: mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, talk to an attorney with a unique understanding of your legal options. Vogelzang Law focuses on mesothelioma cases resulting from asbestos exposure, and they can help you pursue a claim.
Unfortunately, mesothelioma symptoms may not become apparent for decades after the initial contact with the hazardous material. The extended latency period of this cancer can create a shocking and life-altering situation for individuals who never realized they were at risk. An experienced Illinois mesothelioma lawyer can support you through this challenging time.
The Long Latency Period of Mesothelioma: Why Timing Is So Important
One of the most troubling aspects of mesothelioma is the extended time it takes for symptoms to appear. Mesothelioma can take 20, 30, or even 50 years to manifest after asbestos exposure. This means that individuals who worked with asbestos in their youth might not realize they are at risk until well into their later years.
The latency period complicates diagnosis and treatment, as many people do not recall the specifics of their exposure or may not have been aware they were exposed. In some cases, a person may never have worked directly with asbestos but was exposed through secondhand contact, such as from asbestos fibers carried home on the clothing of a family member. This delayed onset makes mesothelioma both a medical and legal challenge.
How Does Asbestos Exposure Lead to Mesothelioma?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing due to its heat-resistant properties. When it is broken or crushed, asbestos releases microscopic fibers.
When these tiny fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become trapped in the lungs, abdomen, or heart lining, where they cause irritation and scarring. Over time, this damage can lead to the development of cancerous cells, resulting in mesothelioma.
Because the disease takes so long to develop, people often don’t associate their current health problems with past exposure. They may be shocked to receive a diagnosis like mesothelioma, especially if they don’t remember working around asbestos.
Someone sure they worked around asbestos or were exposed to it in some other way should be vigilant about monitoring their health for related symptoms. Others who suspect they might have been exposed to asbestos – even if they don’t clearly remember the circumstances – should still talk to their doctor about the risk and stay alert to developing symptoms.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Depending on which part of the body is affected, there are four main types of mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs)
This is the most common form, affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura). Symptoms include:
- Persistent dry cough
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Difficulty swallowing
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen)
This type affects the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). Symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bowel obstruction
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart)
A rare form affecting the lining around the heart (pericardium). Symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Difficulty breathing
- Fluid buildup around the heart
Testicular Mesothelioma
The rarest form affects the lining of the testicles. Symptoms include swelling or lumps in the testicles, though this type is extremely uncommon.
Since pleural mesothelioma is the most common, persistent respiratory symptoms like a dry cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing should never be ignored. If you have these symptoms and a history of asbestos exposure—even if it was decades ago—talk to a doctor about the possibility of mesothelioma.
When to Be on the Lookout for Asbestos-Related Diseases
Given the long latency period of mesothelioma, how can you know if you should be concerned? While not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma, certain situations in your past should prompt you to monitor your health and be aware of potential symptoms.
- Working in construction, shipbuilding, or manufacturing: Many individuals working in these industries before the 1980s were regularly exposed to asbestos in insulation, roofing, and cement.
- Living or working in buildings with asbestos-containing materials: Older homes and commercial buildings may still contain asbestos, particularly in insulation, ceiling tiles, and pipe coverings.
- Secondhand exposure from family members: If a family member worked with asbestos, they may have inadvertently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair, or tools, exposing others in the household.
- Military service: Veterans, particularly those who served in the Navy, were often exposed to asbestos on ships, in shipyards, and in military bases.
- Home renovations: DIY home renovations in older homes can disturb asbestos-containing materials, putting homeowners and contractors at risk.
If any of these scenarios apply to your life, it’s essential to keep them in mind when discussing health issues with your doctor, especially if you begin to experience respiratory symptoms like a dry cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Mentioning past asbestos exposure can help guide doctors to the correct diagnosis sooner rather than later.
Compassionate Legal Help for Those Diagnosed with Mesothelioma
Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis is life-changing. It can be overwhelming to process not only the medical implications but also the legal aspects of seeking compensation for asbestos exposure.
Many people diagnosed with mesothelioma may not know where to begin when it comes to filing a claim or holding the responsible parties accountable. This is where Vogelzang Law can help. As a law firm dedicated to mesothelioma cases, we understand the challenges you’re facing and are here to guide you through the legal process.
While asbestos use has been heavily regulated for decades, many companies that exposed workers and consumers to asbestos knew about its dangers and did little to protect people. Filing a mesothelioma claim can help you secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Building a Mesothelioma Case: What Vogelzang Law Can Do for You
When building a case, your mesothelioma attorney considers factors including:
- Identifying the source of asbestos exposure: Vogelzang Law’s experienced team of mesothelioma lawyers works to identify when and where you were exposed to asbestos, even if the exposure occurred decades ago. This can involve tracking down old employment records, company documents, and other evidence.
- Establishing liability: In mesothelioma claims, it’s essential to prove that a company or entity is responsible for your asbestos exposure. Our mesothelioma attorneys have the experience to investigate and pursue claims against a past employer, product manufacturer, or property owner.
- Navigating state laws: Vogelzang Law is based in Chicago, but we handle mesothelioma cases nationwide. Our attorneys consider any state laws governing asbestos claims to ensure your claim is handled correctly and build the strongest case possible.
- Pursuing compensation: Mesothelioma treatment is expensive, and the financial burden can be overwhelming for families. Vogelzang Law will work to ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
You Are Not Alone: Contact Vogelzang Law Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you are not alone. Vogelzang Law understands the emotional and physical toll of a mesothelioma diagnosis, and our legal team is here to support you every step of the way. We are committed to helping you pursue justice and compensation, so you can focus on your health and well-being.
If you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos in the past and are experiencing symptoms like a dry cough, it’s time to consult your doctor and explore your legal options. Contact Asbestos and Mesothelioma law firm today to discuss your mesothelioma diagnosis and learn how our attorneys can help you. Call our main office in Chicago at 312-466-1669 or contact us online.
