Unfortunately, there are no immediately apparent symptoms of asbestos exposure. Long term inhalation of asbestos fibers has been connected with three serious diseases, Lung Cancer, Asbestosis, and Mesothelioma. These diseases do have identifiable symptoms, but after a very long incubation period, as many as thirty years. Asbestosis Symptoms Difficulty breathing Chest pain Chronic cough Easily exhausted from psychical excretion Shortness of breath Lung Cancer Symptoms Dry, irritating cough Increase in sputum production Blood mixed with sputum Chest pain Lung infection Mesothelioma Symptoms can be characterized by fluid build up in the lungs or in the abdomen and each may have different symptoms. Fluid in the lungs Shortness of breath Chest pain Tightness in the chest Persistent cough Weight Loss Fatigue Fluid in the abdomen Swelling Weight loss Nausea Obstructed bowels Anemia Fever and/or night sweats What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a term used to refer to any of the six different naturally occurring fibrous minerals used in commercial products. Asbestos has been mined and used for thousands of years. It was mined commercially in the United States from the 1800's until 1993. A common misconception is that asbestos use is now banned in the United States. The fact is, asbestos has been used in commercial products in the US since the 1800's and currently is still being used in some products. Use of asbestos dramatically increased during World War II, due its excellent insulation and fireproofing properties. Who is at Risk? Workers and family members living with them while employed in the following trades are at the highest risks associated with exposure to asbestos. Asbestos mining Plants manufacturing asbestos containing products Ship building ship salvage Shipboard mechanics especially boiler mechanics Construction especially roofing Asbestos abatement Brake and transmission mechanics If you experience any of these symptoms and you were exposed to asbestos you should see a doctor for proper diagnosis and care as these symptoms may be associated with other less serious conditions. If you find the above helpful, you can find other helpful articles at Your Law School [http://yourlawschool.com/] where I provide free legal resources. Feel free to stop by and ask your legal questions. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Robert_W_Duncan/912041 Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5865377