Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure in Arkansas

Has your family been affected by mesothelioma or an asbestos-related cancer? You’re not alone. Each year in Arkansas, people are exposed to cancer-causing asbestos. Some will develop mesothelioma as a result.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally-occurring group of minerals. It has been used in building materials because it resists heat and corrosion. Because of its frequent use, asbestos exposure is not always obvious. Today, asbestos is widely recognized as an extreme health hazard, and its use is highly regulated by OSHA and the EPA. Unfortunately, asbestos fibers remain in many older buildings across Arkansas.

Have I Been Exposed to Asbestos in Arkansas?

Construction workers who repeatedly worked in older industrial buildings, or with construction materials containing asbestos, are most at risk for heavy asbestos exposure. Asbestos exposure occurs when you inhale the fibers. Some fibers can attach to the membranes of lungs and other internal organs, eventually causing cancerous cells to rapidly produce in the mesothelial membrane that lines most of our organs. Because the fibers are too small to see, victims of asbestos exposure are often unaware that they are inhaling dangerous fibers.

Unfortunately, the average homeowner may also be at risk for asbestos exposure. It was frequently used in building materials in homes built before the 1980s, and even simple home repairs that stir up asbestos can bring you into contact with the fibers.

Risk Factors for Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma, a cancer that occurs in the thin layers of tissue that cover your internal organs. It most often occurs in the lungs, but may be found more rarely in the tissues surrounding the abdomen, heart, and testicles.

Common Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer, made worse by the fact that it can develop 20 to 40 years after exposure to asbestos. Symptoms often do not occur until the disease is in advanced stages.

Mesothelioma is rare and develops long after asbestos exposure. For this reason, symptoms are often mistakenly diagnosed as other conditions. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain under the rib cage
• Painful coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual lumps of tissue under the skin on your chest or abdomen
• Sudden or unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain and swelling

Be sure to share the details of your asbestos exposure with your doctor. It’s important to discuss your symptoms and walk through the possible diagnosis.

Treatments for Patients with Mesothelioma

Because mesothelioma often reaches advanced stages before doctors are able to diagnose it, a cure may not be possible for many patients. However, a doctor may recommend several different treatment options. If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Arkansas, you can decide with your family whether you wish to pursue an aggressive plan of treatment. You may prefer to focus on quality of life.

Possible treatments:

• Surgery – Remove the cancerous tissue, remove an affected lung, or decrease fluid buildup in the chest.
• Chemotherapy – May shrink or slow the growth of cancerous cells
• Radiation, which may be used after surgery or as a stand-alone treatment to reduce symptoms
• Clinical trials – People with mesothelioma may try new types of treatment, such as biological therapy or gene therapy.

If I have Mesothelioma, How Can a Lawyer Help?

If you or a loved one have been exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may have legal rights to compensation. The Asbestos Awareness Center recommends contacting a lawyer right away to discuss your case and review legal options.

At Taylor King Law, we understand that no amount of money can bring back your health or quality of life. However, a successful mesothelioma lawsuit or court settlement can help cover the cost of medical expenses and provide peace of mind. You should never have to fear for your family’s future in this already difficult situation.

Taylor King can help you find peace in the midst of the battle against mesothelioma.  We have offices across Arkansas for your convenience, but if you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.

Call Taylor King Law

At Taylor King Law, our team is ready to stand on your side—by your side. We will work with the nation’s best mesothelioma lawyers and experts to ensure you receive the outcome that you deserve.

It all begins with a phone call: dial 870.246.0505 to begin your free, no-obligation consultation with Taylor King today. You can also complete the Online Form to submit your information. You’re one call away from getting help today.