Silicosis is a disease that many people may not be aware of. But some workers in Tennessee are more likely to develop this lung condition because of where they work. When one works in an area where crystalline silica is present, the risk of developing silicosis is higher. This dust can get into the lungs and cause serious health issues.
Understanding silicosis
Silicosis is generally considered to be a work-related illness. People who work around silicon dioxide, or silica, often inhale tiny particles of the compound. This causes damage to the respiratory system and can lead to long-term lung problems. Those who work in mining, construction, stonework, foundry work and sandblasting are at risk of developing silicosis.
Some of the most common symptoms of silicosis are coughing, inflammation, and fibrosis, or scarring, of the lung tissue. Silicosis symptoms can occur in less than two years when one is exposed to high concentrations of silica. It also develops in the long term when one is exposed to lesser amounts of silicon dioxide over 10 years or longer. Over time, one may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, and weight loss in relation to the disease.
Legal help for a silicosis victim
Many people who work in areas where silica dust is present may not be aware of the risks of exposure. But this compound can cause significant lung problems and there is no cure for the disease. Tennessee workers who have developed silicosis may suffer from long-term effects that prevent them from working and doing other activities. In some cases, those who were diagnosed with silicosis may have cause to file a civil lawsuit against an employer based on their work-related illness.