Despite the best efforts of the UK government to put strict regulations on the use of asbestos in buildings, there are still a tragic number of deaths in the UK that are due to prior exposure to the dangerous substance. When asbestos fibres are inhaled during building work, it can lead to the development of unpleasant and deadly diseases.
What are some of the diseases that are caused by asbestos?
Asbestos claims can cover a number of different diseases that are caused by the substance. These include:
- Lung cancer
- Rounded atelectasis
- Lung cancer
- Pleural plaques
- Pleural effusion
- Diffuse pleural thickening
- Asbestosis
- Mesothelioma
Unknowingly inhaling the dangerous fibres of asbestos over a number of years can ultimately lead to serious damage and scarring of the lungs. Symptoms of asbestosis can include:
- Extreme tiredness
- A persistent cough
- Wheezing
- Swollen fingers
- Shortness of breath
- A pain in the chest or in the shoulder
If a medical professional suspects that a patient may have been impacted by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, they will refer them to a specialist for the following tests:
- A chest X-Ray
- A lung function test to check the capacity and correct functioning of the lungs
- A CT scan of your lungs
Despite the very serious nature of the condition, there are some treatments that are known to ease some of the symptoms. These treatments include:
- Pulmonary rehabilitation, a programme that is designed to teach exercises and ways in which someone can manage their condition.
- Oxygen therapy, where you can breathe in oxygen-rich air from a tank.
Claiming compensation after the death of a loved one
Due to the fact that a number of these asbestos-related diseases can lead to a premature death, there are cases where family members wish to claim compensation after the death of their loved one. The process for claiming for asbestos-related wrongful death is often complicated because it is harder to gather evidence when the victim can no longer provide it themselves. Trying to pinpoint when and where exposure occurred is often crucial to constructing a case, but it is not impossible with the help of specialist and experienced lawyers. In serious cases, mesothelioma compensation for family members is important to offer financial support.
Time limits for claiming compensation
There are two different time limits that adhere to making claim for asbestos or mesothelioma compensation. If you are suffering from an asbestos-related disease, then you have three years from the date of your diagnosis to make your claim. If you are the relative of someone who has suffered, then you have a further three years from the date of their death – providing that they were still within the initial three-year bracket.
Which industries place you at high risk of developing asbestos-related diseases?
Due to the nature of the work, some job roles can place you at a much higher risk of developing an asbestos disease. Some specific industries that may mean that you have been exposed to asbestos fibres are:
- Building
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Carpentry
- Asbestos mining
- Painting
If you develop the known symptoms of an asbestos-related disease, then it is always important that you visit your doctor if you suspect that your job may have exposed you to the dangerous fibres.