What are COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD is the name for a collection of lung diseases including Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema and Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD), all of which can occur together. As the names suggest these lung diseases are all persistent diseases which cause airways obstruction and difficulty in breathing.
The term Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is used to described the narrowing of the the airways due to either Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis or both. It is sometimes termed as Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD).
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most common respiratory diseases in the UK and occurs as a result of damage to the lung, causing the airways (bronchioles) to become inflamed & to narrow. The main causes of Empysema & Chronic Bronchitis and hence COPD are smoking, and inhalation of fumes & dust (such as arsenic vapour & coal dust).
Further information on COPD from the Health & Safety Executive.
Occupational & Work Related Asthma.
Occupational Asthma is a serious health problem & is caused by an allergic reaction due to chemical exposure. Work related Asthma is usually termed as Asthma made worse by working conditions or chemical exposure. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing & tightness of chest.
Further information on Occupational Asthma from the Health & Safety Executive.
What should I do if I am suffering from an Industrial Lung Disease such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?
The first step if you are suffering from COPD or an Industrial Lung Disease would be to call us so we can assess your claim for compensation and advise you on whether you will be eligible to claim.
The second step is to go see your GP who will need to establish a relationship between your symptoms and possible exposure to a causative agent. Shortness of breath, a persistent cough, wheezing, tight chest & thick mucus are key symptoms & Spirometry (lung function test) will probably be performed alongside a CT scan or chest X-ray.
Further to this any medical(s) instigated by our solicitors will cost you nothing, they will be paid for by the solicitor and claimed back as a disbursement from the other side.
