Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a
fibrosis of the lungs caused by asbestos.
The term asbestosis is sometimes used as a term for other asbestos
conditions but medically this is incorrect.
Asbestosis usually develops
20 years or more after exposure to asbestos. It can develop
sooner where someone has been exposed to very high levels of
asbestos however.
Far more exposure to asbestos
is required to cause asbestosis than pleural plaques,
pleural
thickening or mesothelioma. Asbestosis is
usually a progressive disease which can cause increasing
breathlessness and cough as it progresses. Typically the
disease is more extensive the more asbestos you have been exposed
to.
Asbestosis can remain stable
for many years causing little disability though. The risk of
developing other asbestos conditions rises when someone is
diagnosed with asbestosis because of the high levels of asbestos
they must have been exposed in order to develop the
condition. The risks arise out of the exposure to asbestos
and not the presence of asbestosis.
Compensation for asbestosis depends on the extent
of the symptoms it is causing and benefits are also
available.
To find out more contact
us now on 029 2078 5971 or email asbestos@hughjames.com
Other asbestos related illnesses
include:
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