What is silicosis?
Silicosis is a disabling and possibly deadly respiratory condition that is caused by the frequent exposure to and inhalation of dust that contains crystalline silica, also referred to as silica dust or quartz. When inhaled, the silica dust particles may become trapped in the lungs resulting in scarring or fibrosis. The scarring may reduce the lung's capability for extracting oxygen from the air, possibly resulting in significant health problems. Silicosis may develop after extended exposure to silica dust. The most common type of silicosis that people suffer from is chronic silicosis, which typically occurs after ten years of exposure to low levels of silica. Accelerated silicosis and acute silicosis can have effect with much less exposure than chronic silicosis. Silica is a compound that occurs naturally and is one of the most common minerals found in the earth's crust. Silica is often found in rock beds and is also a key component in sand and granite.
Who is at risk of silicosis?
Well over one million people are exposed to significant amounts of silica dust each year. There are some occupations and activities that have a great risk of developing silicosis as they involve frequent exposure to silica dust particles. Some of the activities and occupations with the highest risks of exposure include construction, mining, masonry work, sandblasting, glass manufacturing, stone cutting, rock drilling, and shipbuilding.
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What effects does silicosis have?
Symptoms of silicosis may include severe cough, shortness of breath, chest pains and a feeling of weakness. Silicosis and the inhalation of silica may also be linked to other diseases, as silicosis may reduce the body's ability to fight infection. Inhaling silica dust particles may lead to other debilitating problems including tuberculosis, bronchitis, and even lung cancer. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, since 1968 more than 14,000 US workers have died from silicosis and more than 200 more workers die each year. Many who do not die are still left disabled by silicosis. Currently, there is no cure for silicosis.
Questions and Consultations
If you or a family member has been exposed to crystalline silica and developed silicosis and you feel that you may need legal representation in this matter, or are interested in more information on silicosis lawsuits, please fill out the short evaluation form below and an experienced attorney with Seeger Weiss LLP will assist you in evaluating your case concerning silicosis. Attorney consultations incur no obligation on your part and all initial consultations are free of charge. Seeger Weiss LLP has office locations in both New York and New Jersey.
Link To Lawyer Seek's Silicosis Content:
<a href='http://www.lawyerseek.com/Practice/Medical-Injury-C19/Silicosis-P25/'>Silicosis: Lawyer Seek</a> |
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