Start an Asbestos Trust Fund Claim Today! - (888) 640.0914
Free Mesothelioma Consultation 888.640.0914
Free Mesothelioma Consultation 888.640.0914
FAQs About Asbestos Exposure
❓ FAQs About Asbestos Exposure: What You Need to Know
Asbestos exposure can cause serious illnesses decades after contact. Whether you're concerned about past exposure, a recent diagnosis, or a loved one’s risk, these frequently asked questions cover the essential facts.
1️⃣ What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals once used in construction, insulation, and industrial products. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and, if inhaled, cause severe diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, and asbestosis.
2️⃣ How do people get exposed to asbestos?
Most people are exposed at workplaces like construction sites, shipyards, power plants, and military bases. Others were exposed through secondhand contact—such as washing the clothes of someone who worked around asbestos—or through consumer products like talcum powder.
3️⃣ What are the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases?
Symptoms often don’t appear for 20–50 years after exposure and may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Chest or abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Always tell your doctor if you have a history of asbestos exposure.
4️⃣ Can I get sick from brief or one-time exposure?
While long-term, high-dose exposure poses the greatest risk, even short-term or limited exposure can lead to mesothelioma or lung cancer, especially if fibers were inhaled or ingested.
5️⃣ How do I know if I was exposed to asbestos?
You may have been exposed if you:
- Worked in certain industries before the 1990s
- Handled or were near insulation, pipe coverings, brake linings, or asbestos cement
- Lived in buildings with old asbestos materials
- Lived with someone exposed to asbestos on the job
6️⃣ What should I do if I suspect I’ve been exposed?
Speak with a doctor familiar with asbestos-related diseases. They may recommend chest imaging or pulmonary function tests to monitor your lungs. Keep a detailed record of any potential exposure—jobs, materials, dates, and locations.
7️⃣ Is there a medical test to detect asbestos in the body?
There is no test to detect asbestos fibers themselves, but imaging (X-rays, CT scans) and biopsies can reveal scarring, tumors, or signs of mesothelioma. These tests are usually done if symptoms are present.
8️⃣ Can I file a legal claim if I’ve been exposed to asbestos?
Yes. If you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, you may qualify for compensation through:
- Asbestos Trust Funds
- Lawsuits against manufacturers or employers
- VA benefits if you’re a veteran
Even family members may file wrongful death claims on behalf of loved ones.
9️⃣ What is secondhand (or take-home) asbestos exposure?
Secondhand exposure happens when someone inhales or touches asbestos fibers brought home on a worker’s clothes, hair, or tools. Many wives and children of asbestos workers later developed mesothelioma due to this indirect exposure.
🔟 Is asbestos still a danger today?
Yes. Although many asbestos products were banned or phased out, asbestos is not fully banned in the U.S. It still exists in older homes, schools, buildings, and military bases. Renovation or demolition projects can release hidden asbestos into the air.
🟦 Have More Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you or someone you love may have been exposed to asbestos, don’t wait. Early action can lead to better medical care, legal support, and peace of mind.
Call today for a free consultation with our team. We’ll answer your questions, guide you through your options, and help you every step of the way.
Why Choose Us?
Fighting for Mesothelioma Victims for Over 25 Years!
For more than two decades, we’ve stood beside individuals and families devastated by mesothelioma—helping them secure the compensation they deserve. Our experienced mesothelioma attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront—no out-of-pocket costs at any point.
Legal fees are among the lowest nationwide, and you only pay if we win your case.
Get a free, no-obligation consultation today.
Call 888.640.0914to speak directly with a mesothelioma attorney and find out if you qualify for a claim.