There has been an increase in reports of deaths from industrial disease, calling for more demand for industrial disease solicitors. In September, the death of a Broughton man was concluded to be due to exposure to asbestos during his working life. He had been exposed to asbestos for many years during his time working as a carpet planner, as he would often have to drill holes into asbestos tiles. Breathing in the dust has led to his ultimate death from mesothelioma. A bus conductor in Derbyshire died in November of the previous year from diseases related to his previous job as a miner, and in Holbeach a former police sergeant died from his exposure to asbestos. These cases are all horrifying, and since they are the result of negligence, their families have been compensated – although it is a small payback for the loss of a loved one.
What diseases can exposure to asbestos cause?
Exposure to the dust that is created from the disturbance of materials made from asbestos is very dangerous. It can cause a number of diseases including:
- Asbestosis
This is a breathing condition that is caused by exposure to and inhalation of asbestos. As with a lot of conditions that are caused by exposure to asbestos fibres, it can take years to develop. There are several symptoms that are associated with asbestosis, that include shortness of breath, high blood pressure and weight loss. The condition can be serious, and so it is important that you see a doctor as soon as you notice the symptoms.
- Mesothelioma
This is a painful, debilitating and often ultimately fatal condition that is caused by the exposure to asbestos. It is a tumour of the abdominal cavity lining or in the lining of the lung. The time from exposure to the first presentation of symptoms can reach 20 years, but once diagnosed the life expectancy is tragically short and can range from one to three years.
- Lung cancer
Lung cancer can be caused by exposure to asbestos with symptoms usually presenting about 10 years later. The condition is difficult to distinguish from lung cancer that is caused by smoking, but if the patient has experienced both then the chance of developing the disease is majorly increased.
- Pleural plaques
Pleural plaques do not usually cause any symptoms, and the condition is a thickening of the lining in certain parts of the lung. People with the disease are no longer able to claim compensation in England, but it can heighten the risk of developing other conditions such as mesothelioma so it is worth being aware of.
- Pleural thickening
Pleural thickening is a condition where both the inner and outer layers of the lung lining become thickened. Exposure to asbestos can cause this illness. With pleural thickening, your lungs’ ability to expand decreases which causes breathlessness
When considering making an industrial disease claim, you will most likely need the help of a trained specialist to help you ascertain whether you can make a strong case. From pleural thickening to mesothelioma, sitting down and having a chat with a professional can help you decide what to do next.