North Carolina Asbestosis and Cancer Claims Lawyer

The mesothelium is the membrane that encases internal organs. When the cells in that membrane begin dividing abnormally, a dangerous form of cancer known as mesothelioma can develop. As with other cancers, mesothelioma can spread quickly and damage other vital organs. North Carolina residents who develop this disease can hire a North Carolina asbestosis and cancer claims lawyer to find compensation that can pay for critical medical care.

The law firm of M. Reid Acree Jr., Attorney at Law, can review your case to find the most effective remedy for obtaining the compensation you are owed. Mesothelioma is unique among cancers in that the primary cause of the disease is often man-made. Asbestos exposure can also lead to a chronic lung disease called asbestosis or cancer.

Why You Should Choose M. Reid Acree Jr., Attorney at Law

If you are suffering from asbestosis or mesothelioma, you understand how life-altering a serious and potentially life-threatening diagnosis can be. Patients who receive top medical care have a better chance of recovering from either disease. One source of compensation that can help you receive the medical care you need can come with the help of an attorney who has the experience and resources to get you the benefits you deserve.

The founding attorney at M. Reid Acree Jr., Attorney at Law, has helped many clients receive favorable settlements after they were diagnosed with mesothelioma or asbestosis. Our founding attorney personally handles our asbestos-related cases, relying on his many years of experience and knowledge to help clients hold the at-fault party or group accountable for failing to provide safe work or living conditions.

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that develops in the covering of internal organs. The cancer can develop in lung tissue following asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a group of minerals used in construction and other industries.

Asbestos fibers are resistant to heat and fire, which makes them useful for industrial processes. If asbestos is inhaled, it can become lodged in the linings of the lungs or other internal organs. Symptoms can include inflammation of the internal organs, coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath, among other symptoms.

Mesothelioma can take years or even decades before symptoms are noticeable. Unfortunately, this can make early diagnosis difficult. Treatment options include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, drugs, and therapies that target specific proteins that contribute to the cancer’s spread.

What Is Asbestosis?

Asbestosis is a lung disease that is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Although not cancerous, the symptoms of asbestosis can make breaking and normal daily functions difficult. The presence of asbestos inside the lungs can irritate lung tissue and cause lung tissue scarring. This can lead to serious breathing problems.

Noticeable symptoms of asbestosis can take many years to develop. Common symptoms include fatigue, chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath. The disease can lead to serious and even life-threatening symptoms.

Treatments often focus on preventing further damage to the lungs and managing symptoms. Oxygen therapy can help. In serious cases, a lung transplant may be needed. The most effective way to prevent asbestosis is to avoid exposure to asbestos.

How an Attorney Can Help You Receive Compensation

Since exposure to asbestos often happens in the workplace in North Carolina, one source of compensation can come from your employer’s workers’ compensation plan. Both mesothelioma and asbestosis can be work-related injuries when the exposure occurs at work.

Proving that your lung disease is the result of exposure to toxic and dangerous substances or fibers at work often requires the help of an attorney who understands the state’s workers’ compensation laws. Your employer or the insurance carrier may try to fight responsibility for your health problems.

Mesothelioma may also qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Mesothelioma is recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) as a disabling condition. Your lawyer can provide medical evidence confirming the diagnosis to qualify for federal benefits.

FAQs

Q: How Serious Is Mesothelioma?

A: Mesothelioma is an aggressive and often fatal cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure. It affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, with a poor prognosis. Treatment can extend life, but most patients face severe health challenges. If you worry about how you will afford medical care, you can hire an attorney who can seek compensation from the party that failed to provide a safe work environment.

Q: Who Is Most at Risk for Mesothelioma?

A: Individuals with long-term asbestos exposure, such as construction workers, miners, shipyard workers, and military personnel, are at the highest risk for mesothelioma. Family members of these workers can also be at risk due to secondhand asbestos exposure. Exposure can occur in homes or schools built before asbestos was banned, especially during renovations or repairs.

Q: What Can Compensation for Mesothelioma Include?

A: In a South Carolina workers’ compensation claim, someone with mesothelioma can be paid for medical expenses, including treatments, hospital stays, medications, and doctor visits related to their condition.

They may also receive compensation for lost wages through temporary or permanent disability benefits, depending on their ability to work. Additionally, they can be compensated for permanent disability, providing financial support for the long-term impacts of mesothelioma on their health and livelihood.

Q: Who Is at Risk for Mesothelioma?

A: Anyone exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma, especially those in industries like construction, shipbuilding, or manufacturing. Family members of workers exposed to asbestos can also be at risk due to secondhand exposure through contaminated clothing or materials. It can take years or even decades after exposure to asbestos for symptoms to appear.

Schedule Your Asbestos Cancer Consultation Today

Mesothelioma and asbestosis are serious diseases that require costly treatments and therapies. To help you have the financial resources to pay for the treatments you need, you can rely on the legal services of M. Reid Acree Jr., Attorney at Law, to represent you throughout your workers’ compensation claim, whether for asbestosis or injuries from exposure to chemicals. With legal representation, the insurance carrier will be far less likely to try to deny you fair compensation. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.