Pleural Thickening
Pleural thickening
is a thickening of the pleural layers around the
lung. There are two layers around the lung and
pleural thickening can affect the inner layer and outer layer.
Pleural thickening usually takes 20 years or more to develop after
exposure to asbestos.
Pleural thickening does not usually
cause breathlessness or chest pain until it is diffuse and
bilateral, which is once it affects both layers on both lungs.
Diffuse pleural thickening usually develops following a
pleural effusion.
Pleural thickening alone does
not develop into a more serious asbestos condition
however if it becomes bilateral and diffuse it can
cause increasing breathlessness. Typically the thickening is more
extensive the more asbestos someone has been exposed to. The risk
of developing other asbestos conditions arises out of the exposure
to asbestos and not the presence of pleural thickening.
Compensation for pleural
thickening depends on the extent of the symptoms it is
causing. If it is diffuse and bilateral 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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