Understand the Facts Concerning a Silica Injury
Silica is present in many everyday things, such as rock, soil, and sand. When someone inhales silica, the tiny particles get into the lung’s tiny air sacs and this can cause health problems. It is as dangerous as other classified carcinogens, according to the World Health Organization. Because of this, those with a history of exposure might consider seeking help from a doctor and injury lawyer.
What is a Silica Injury and How Does It Occur?
When someone has a silica injury, also referred to as silicosis, the tissue of the lungs becomes hard due to the inhalation of crystalline silica. This event can cause several problems, such as a higher risk for serious lung conditions, including lung cancer, and permanent shortness of breath. There are many ways this injury could occur, and it is usually due to someone’s work environment. Common situations where someone might experience silica exposure include:
- Equipment manufacturing places that use silica as part of the process
- Employers that do not take reasonable precautions when they use silica in the workplace
- Silica-based product manufacturers and suppliers
- Safety equipment manufacturers who produce items like face masks that do not properly protect against silica inhalation
What Are the Symptoms of a Silica Injury?
The symptoms depend on whether someone has chronic or acute silicosis. With the acute type, rapidly worsening shortness of breath is common. People might also experience fatigue and weight loss. Within two years, the person usually experiences respiratory failure.
The chronic type tends to occur more slowly, and it might be years before someone experiences symptoms. Some breathing issues during exercise are often the first symptom. Over time, even at rest, someone might experience shortness of breath. A sputum-producing cough is possible, and patients might eventually experience a reduction in blood oxygen levels. This can ultimately result in cor pulmonale, a type of heart failure that can be life-threatening.
Contacting an Injury Lawyer for Silica Injuries
Silica injuries can be serious, and if someone experiences one, they might want to consult an attorney to determine if they have any legal recourse. If you think that a form of negligence is responsible for your silica injury, consider contacting an injury lawyer to explore your options.