What is Asbestosis?

There are different types of asbestos, and all are dangerous to human health. White, blue and brown asbestos have all been banned in the UK.

The greatest danger to humans is if the asbestos materials are broken or damaged. When this happens, the fine asbestos fibres become airborne, and are easy for humans to breathe in.

There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos, although anecdotal evidence suggests that the longer someone is exposed to asbestos, the greater the health risks.

Who is affected by asbestos?

Technically, anyone can suffer from asbestosis. Particularly people whose work involved:

.         Lagging or removing asbestos

·         Building

·         Demolition

·         Manufacture of asbestos products

·         Asbestos spraying

In 2010, health and safety regulations governing the use of asbestos are strict, with equipment and working practices in place to protect workers.

Signs and symptoms of asbestosis?

Like many industrial diseases, asbestosis can take years to emerge. For some workers it is up to 40 years after exposure, but between 25 and 40 years is the average length of time. Common symptoms are fairly easy to spot:

·         Shortness of breath

·         Difficulty breathing (at first only during exercise but later, even only at rest)

·         Tiredness

·         Persistent cough

·         Tightness in the chest

·         Chest Pain

How is asbestosis diagnosed?

A doctor will examine you and ask questions about your working history. A record and timeline of your symptoms in addition to a chest x-ray and scans and a lung function test will be needed before asbestosis can be diagnosed. People who have been exposed to asbestosis are recommended to have regular check-ups, as symptoms of the illness can take decades to emerge.

A history of exposure to asbestos, the pattern of symptoms experienced, a chest x-ray/scans and lung function tests are usually needed to make the diagnosis of asbestosis.

Can asbestosis be cured?

There is no cure for asbestosis. Medication can relieve symptoms and prevent further exposure from worsening the illness. Sometimes oxygen treatments can ease the respiratory problems of people with severe asbestosis.

Macks Solicitors are legal experts in helping people make asbestos claims. Exposure to asbestos is often the result of negligence or breach of statutory duty.

Macks Solicitors offer a quality, caring service to all our clients. We understand the considerable distress that a diagnosis like asbestosis can cause. Our expert legal team will listen carefully to all the details of your claim, and fight hard to obtain the  compensation to which you are entitled.