Asbestos Related Diseases

Asbestos results in a range of different diseases caused by the inhalation of asbestos dust or air borne fibres. Asbestos has been used for many years on buildings and equipment to insulate and protect from fire. It has been a well-known dangerous substance for many years and should have been controlled properly by employers and the government. Whilst some people do not suffer any harm after inhaling asbestosis others do suffer serious harm often many years after exposure to the substance. Conditions include:

• Asbestosis

This condition is often seen in relation to workers who have been heavily exposed to asbestos such as miners, laggers, roofers, workers in insulation and people who have worked in asbestos factories. The condition causes a scarring to the lungs, which will continue after the exposure has ended. Symptoms generally do not arise until 10 years after the exposure and often much longer. The fibrosis of the lungs is usually accompanied by abnormal chest sounds, clubbing of the fingernails and increased breathlessness. There is also an increased risk of lung cancer, pulmonary tension and cardiac arrest.

• Mesothelioma

This is a form of cancer, which generally affects the membrane that surrounds the lungs, and less commonly the lining of the abdomen or heart. It results in pain, discomfort and breathlessness. This form of cancer is often sadly resistant to treatment. Mesothelioma may develop from twenty to fifty years from the exposure to asbestos. It has also been seen to develop in people who have never worked with asbestos but were exposed to it many years ago.

• Diffuse Pleural Thickening

This condition relates to a thickening of the larger areas of the pleura (the lining of the lungs) and usually both lungs are affected. Whilst this condition does not generally result in symptoms, it can lead to a restriction of expansion in the lungs and is a sign of a considerable exposure to asbestos. It often takes over 20 years (and often longer) from the first exposure before this condition is detected and can appear even after minor exposure to asbestos.

• Pleural Plaques

These are small areas of thickening of the pleura (the lining of the lungs), which often become hard with the passage of time.

How can Ashton Lake Solicitors help?

Work related illness claims can be a complex area and it is essential that you speak to a specialist solicitor. Ashton Lake Solicitors are specialists in bringing claims of this nature. Our aim is to get to the truth of how the injury occurred and to obtain the maximum compensation possible. We pride ourselves in high levels of client care and will always progress your claim with sensitivity at every stage of the process.

If you wish to make an enquiry then please complete the online enquiry form or call 01509 262621 to speak to a specialist work related illness solicitor who will be available to discuss your case further. We offer a wide choice of funding arrangements including no win no fee.