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• Asbestosis

© By Orin Zebest

Asbestosis medical definition: Asbestosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a mineral that at one time was very common in the construction industry, especially in houses, apartments, and office buildings. It was used in types of insulation, flooring, and ceiling tiles. 

Before its dangers were well-known like they are today, construction and building workers came into close contact with asbestos frequently. Many of these workers later developed asbestosis and other related lung conditions. Asbestosis can be very dangerous as it can lead to the scarring of lung tissue (pulmonary fibrosis) and deadly lung cancers associated with asbestos exposure like mesothelioma. 

Some common symptoms of asbestosis include:

• Shortness of breath

• Persistent, dry cough

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Widening of the fingertips or toes ie clubbing 

• Chest tightness and/or pain

Asbestosis in Medical Malpractice Cases

Asbestosis can relate to medical malpractice as your doctor has a professional duty to make an accurate and timely diagnosis when you present symptoms of asbestosis. An wrong or delayed diagnosis can lead complications or more critical conditions that otherwise could have been avoided.

Sources:

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asbestosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354637

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