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more_legal_areas silicosisAcute silicosis usually results from repeated exposure to high concentrations of silica dust, although some acute silicosis victims experienced exposure to a single, lethal dose. The symptoms manifest fairly rapidly: many patients with acute silicosis will show symptoms within five years of exposure, although in some cases signs of acute silicosis may appear within a few weeks.
Individuals who work in trades with a high risk for acute silicosis, or were exposed to large amounts of silica dust should watch for signs of acute silicosis and immediately seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms of acute silicosis appear:
Acute silicosis symptoms are mostly related to the way that the lungs respond to silica dust. Acute silicosis victims have inhaled large amounts of crystalline silica, causing their lungs to produce fibrous tissue—acute silicosis victims suffer from this decrease in the functional surface area of their lungs. Additionally, acute silicosis greatly increases the risk of tuberculosis infections.
While the diagnosis of an acute silicosis condition is fairly simple, treatment is extremely limited. There is currently no known cure for acute silicosis: the lung damage appears irreversible. The course of treatment recommended for persons diagnosed with acute silicosis usually focuses on making patients as comfortable as possible. Cough suppressants, and bronchodilators can help acute silicosis victims breathe more easily, and supplemental oxygen can increase mobility. To combat infection, people with acute silicosis may be placed on heavy antibiotics, and all patients who are diagnosed with acute silicosis should be closely monitored for tuberculosis. The prognosis is admittedly grim for those suffering from acute silicosis. Their health condition usually deteriorates very rapidly in the time following their diagnosis with acute silicosis, and death usually results from lung complications, infection, or tuberculosis.
Although currently incurable, acute silicosis is 100% preventable when proper safety precautions are followed. Employers are responsible for averting acute silicosis through safeguards mandated by OSHA, and for ensuring that employees follow measures to prevent acute silicosis. If you or a loved one suffered exposure to silica dust resulting in acute silicosis, you may be able to recover funds for medical treatment, lost wages, and punitive damages. Acute silicosis is a serious condition that destroys the lives of its victims. An attorney familiar with acute silicosis may be able to advise you on how to protect your legal rights.
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