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Asbestos is a combination of six fibrous minerals that were commonly used for insulation in buildings until the late 1990s. When workers disturb products or locations containing asbestos, tiny fibers are released into the air. These tiny fibers can enter the lungs of workers, staying there for years and causing significant damage. Depending on the length of exposure, workers can possibly develop asbestosis or mesothelioma.
Asbestosis can be a horrifying occupational disease, and the severity of symptoms can vary. A sad story involving a worker in Ireland who has lived with asbestosis for 19 years can give insight in to what the disease is capable of doing.
Jim’s job involved working around asbestos on a naval ship for several years. Fifteen years after starting, he was diagnosed with asbestosis. Since his diagnosis, he has had two lung operations, uses three inhalers every day and gets five chest infections every year. He has also had part of his lung removed due to cancer.
Jim has trouble walking, is easily out of breath and feels as if a death sentence is hanging over him. Being around people who are smoking can be life threatening for Jim, as it can cause potentially fatal chest infections. Unfortunately, there is no cure for asbestosis, and Jim will be affected for the rest of his life. Jim’s story is not unique, and asbestosis affects workers in the United States.
Can Workers With Asbestosis Receive Financial Help?
Workers in Ohio affected by asbestosis might have options to receive workers’ compensation or disability benefits. By reading Jim’s story, it is clear asbestosis can cause significant disability in workers. Some workers may be unable to return to their occupations.
It is important to have a workers’ comp attorney help process claims to increase the chances of receiving benefits. Without benefits and income, life can only become more difficult.
Larrimer & Larrimer, LLC – Columbus Workers’ Comp Attorneys
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