Asbestos-Related Diseases in Ohio

Asbestos exposure has thousands of Ohio workers to develop mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Although asbestos is no longer generally used, many older buildings and homes may contain this dangerous material.  Asbestos was a widely used material across various industries until just a few decades ago, resulting in many workers being exposed on the job.

If a company was aware of the risks associated with asbestos but continued to use the material, they may be financially and legally responsible for your asbestos-related injury. Let an experienced attorney at McDermott Hickey help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. Asbestos was valued for its fire/chemical-resistant properties and strength. Asbestos was used regularly in the manufacturing and building industries to:

• Absorb and dampen sound
• Fireproof buildings, military vehicles, and textiles
• Provide insulation
• Strengthen plastics and cement

Due to this material’s popularity within various industries, many people were exposed on the job and within their homes. Asbestos can directly cause a number of severe and fatal diseases. Anyone who suspects that their health problems or diseases were caused by asbestos exposure in Ohio should contact our office by calling toll-free (877) 303-6379 to review their legal options.

Types of Asbestos-Related Diseases

There are various diseases that asbestos exposure may cause. Some are considered “benign,” meaning they are non-cancerous, while others are cancerous and can cause serious or fatal harm. Asbestos-related diseases from which a person may suffer are asbestosis, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, pleural effusion, and pleural plaques.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis, a form of pneumoconiosis, is a disease where the inner lung tissue becomes severely scarred due to prolonged asbestos exposure. It can cause extreme pain, major difficulty breathing, cardiac failure, or respiratory failure over time. In some cases, Asbestosis may even become fatal.

Lung Cancer and Ovarian Cancer

Asbestos exposure is a frequent cause of lung cancer. Lung cancer tumors may form in any part of the lung in asbestos-related cases and may require chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery to treat.

Ovarian cancer may also result from asbestos exposure. This diagnosis is very aggressive and is often fatal.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure. There are four types of mesothelioma:

• Pleural Mesothelioma
• Peritoneal Mesothelioma
• Pericardial Mesothelioma
• Testicular Mesothelioma

Each type of mesothelioma requires a unique treatment, which can be painful, invasive, and expensive. If a company’s negligence caused you or a loved one to develop an asbestos-related disease, the experienced attorneys at McDermott & Hickey can help determine the liable party and hold them accountable.

Pleural Effusion and Pleural Plaques

A pleural effusion is a buildup of excess fluid between the lung’s pleural layers. This can cause difficulty breathing, a dry cough, and chest pain. Pleural effusions can result from mesothelioma or other lung cancers.

Pleural plaques occur when asbestos causes the lungs to attack the fibers and build up calcified collagen. These plaques can become widespread and thick over time. This diagnosis is a sign of heavy asbestos exposure.

Speak with a Knowledgeable Ohio Attorney About Asbestos-Related Diseases

Exposure to asbestos at work, home, or elsewhere can lead to serious health issues. If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, our attorneys will investigate your case and advise you of your legal options.

To discuss your claim for asbestos-related diseases in Ohio, contact McDermott Hickey today. An attorney could help determine if you are entitled to damages for your lost wages, medical bill, and your pain and suffering.