OCCUPATIONAL BRONCHITIS COMPENSATION CLAIMS

Industrial or occupational bronchitis is a respiratory condition caused by overexposure to harmful agents such as dust, smoke or fumes. In occupational bronchitis, the tubes that move air in and out of the lungs, called “bronchi,” become inflamed and an excessive amount of mucus forms, leading to a persistent cough. Narrowing of the bronchi may also occur, resulting in shortness of breath.

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The most widely documented industrial respiratory disease is occupational asthma which is followed by occupational or industrial bronchitis. Both conditions are brought on by an employee’s prolonged exposure to vapours, dusts, fumes or gases. An asthma attack occurs as air passages narrow, resulting in breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing and tightening of the chest. The severity of these attacks can be lessened if an employee is able to cease their exposure to these substances and by receiving proper medical treatment. If long term exposure continues the employee will need ongoing treatment and symptoms may worsen over time.

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Occupational emphysema occurs when air sacs in the lungs, called “alveoli” become damaged. In common with occupational bronchitis and asthma this disease can be caused by a worker’s exposure to toxic gases which cause the breakdown of small efficient air sacs into larger cavities which are less effective in the transfer of oxygen into the blood stream. The air sacs are unable to properly absorb oxygen due to a reduction in surface area and a build-up of scar tissue which is further complicated by damage to the bronchial tubes. For that reasons occupational bronchitis and emphysema often go hand-in-hand; the common combination of these two respiratory diseases is known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

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Industrial or occupational bronchitis, asthma, emphysema and COPD are diagnosed by utilising specific breathing equipment to analyse the functionality of the lungs. Chest x-rays are also taken. In some cases, blood tests and electrocardiograms may also be ordered in order to properly diagnose the patient’s condition.

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Failure of an employer to provide a safe and healthy work environment may be grounds for compensation for occupational bronchitis, asthma, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. If you have been told you suffer from any of these life-threatening conditions, and you believe it is a result of your employer’s negligence you may be entitled to claim compensation.

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Our qualified solicitors are accredited to the Solicitors Regulation Authority specialist panel of personal injury experts and deal with claims using a no win no fee arrangement. Compensation is paid in full with no deductions. Win or lose there is no charge. We work exclusively with solicitors who specialise in occupational illness claims. Contact us today for a free confidential consultation with no further obligation.