Richardson Law

Asbestosis solicitors in Leeds - Industrial Disease

There are 3 main types of asbestos, blue (crocidolite), brown (amosite) and white (chrysotile).  Asbestosis is a reaction of the the lung to the presence of asbestos fibres which, having reached the bronchioles and air sacs, cause a fibrous thickening in the network distribution, mainly in the lower parts of the lung.  This results in a loss of elasticity in the lung tissue, resulting in breathing difficulties.

Among those most at risk are persons engaged in milling the asbestos ore, the manufacture of asbestos products, lagging, asbestos spraying, building, demolition, and laundering of asbestos workers overalls.

Symptoms develop slowly after a period of exposure which can vary from a few to many years.  In some cases exposure may have begun so long ago that it cannot be recalled.  Breathlessness occurs first and progresses as the lung loses elasticity.  There may be little or no cough and chest pain seldom occurs.  Unless periodic medicals are introduced the diagnosis will not be made until symptoms appear.  Early diagnosis is essential in order to prevent further exposure and an exacerbation of the condition.  Asbestosis predisposes to cancer of the bronchus, a risk increased by cigarette smoking.  The chest should be x-rayed every two years and special lung function tests are helpful.  Diagnosis depends on history of exposure, chest X-ray, lung function testing, symptoms and physical signs.