Silicosis
What is Silicosis?
Although more than two decades have passed since the first reported case of Silicosis, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that each year Silicosis is responsible for more than 250 deaths.1
Causes
The major cause of Silicosis is the inhalation of airborne crystalline silica dust in extreme amounts over a period of time. Fibrous tissue forms when silica dust particles enter the lungs. This process is referred to as fibrosis. It is very difficult for oxygen to flow normally when the lungs are filled with the fibrous tissue. When oxygen flow is impaired, the individual may experience shortness of breath, one of the common symptoms of Silicosis.
Symptoms
There are three forms of Silicosis. Chronic Silicosis occurs when an individual has been exposed to silica dust for more than 20 years. Accelerated Silicosis occurs when an individual has been exposed to silica dust for less than 15 years. With this form of Silicosis, the symptoms progress very quickly. Acute Silicosis occurs when an individual is exposed to extreme amounts of silica dust for a short period of time. Low blood oxygen and shortness of breath are typical symptoms for this form of Silicosis.
Treatment
When a health provider suspects that an individual has been exposed to crystalline silica and possibly has silicosis, they will perform an evaluation of the individual's medical and occupational history. To make sure that other diseases are not responsible for the symptoms, the health professional will perform various diagnostic tests. The treatments available for silicosis only help to keep the disease from worsening. Health professionals generally prescribe medications that relieve symptoms related to respiratory problems,
Legal Options
There are various legal options for individuals diagnosed with Silicosis to recover damages so that they can obtain treatment for their disease. The manufacturers of the products containing asbestos where the individual was exposed are the prime targets of Silicosis lawsuits.
Major Legal Cases
A major blow to Silicosis litigation occurred this year when the Texas Appeals Court denied claims to employees who worked at a power plant. The employees sought damages because they claimed they were exposed to silica and experienced severe illnesses. The appeals court determined that the illnesses suffered by the plaintiffs were not proven to be a result of working at the plant.
References and Resources
American Journal of Public Health (http://www.ajph.org)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (http://www.osha.gov)