Railroad Interstitial Lung Disease Railroad workers are at risk of developing lung diseases such as mesothelioma and pulmonary fibrosis. They also have a higher chance of developing COPD due to exposure to diesel fumes. Some forms of interstitial lung disease are progressive, which means they will get worse as time goes by. The prognosis for the idiopathic lung disease can be poor. Risk Factors Many railroad workers are at risk for developing lung diseases that are debilitating. Railroad workers, especially those who work in industrial settings, are frequently exposed to toxic fumes and other toxins that can cause lung diseases called interstitial. Long-term exposure to toxic chemical can cause lung scarring. This makes it difficult to breathe oxygen. Diesel exhaust fumes are a major cause of railroad interstitial lung disease. Diesel fumes can be extremely irritating to the lungs and may cause COPD as well as other health issues, such as lung cancer and respiratory failure. Other causes of railroad interstitial lung disease include smoking a lot and exposure to wood, metal or stone dust. Other risk factors include a history of hepatitis (including tuberculosis), pneumonia or a family history along with comorbidities like GERD malignancy, GERD diabetes. A few railroad companies have failed to inform their employees of the dangers of railroad work. This has led to an increased incidence of lung diseases like pulmonary fibroids among railroad workers who are in the profession. Families of railroaders that have suffered these conditions could be able to file a lawsuit in accordance with the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA) against the railroad to recover damages. This could include medical expenses and lost wages, as well as discomfort and pain, and other damages due to the wrongful diagnosis. Signs and symptoms The most frequently reported symptoms of interstitial lung disease in railroads are shortness of breath and dry cough that does not disappear. Over time, the condition can cause other problems which make it difficult for people to breathe. It can lead to life-threatening complications, like breathing problems, pneumonia, or heart failure. The most severe signs of interstitial pulmonary disease that affects railroad workers include fatigue, numbness in the fingers and toes and pulmonary fibrosis. This scarring of the lung tissue prevents the lungs to supply oxygen to the body. People with pulmonary fibrosis may also experience breathing difficulties during sleep and other signs connected to the immune system. Inhaling asbestos can cause serious scarring in the lungs, and can cause other illnesses. It can cause cancer, such as mesothelioma which is a rare cancer that affects organs and the lining in the chest cavity. It may also lead to the form of fibrosis known as asbestosis in the lungs as well as other conditions like silicosis. Rail yard workers are exposed to chemicals, dust and fumes from the freight train equipment, as well as maintenance of track. A FELA lawsuit can help workers get compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other costs. Diagnosis Interstitial lung disease causes scarring and damage to parts of the lungs. The scarring limits the lungs' ability to pump oxygen into the blood and transport it to other tissues of the body. This can cause dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath with activity. If not treated, Railroad Cancer Lawsuit Settlements could be life-threatening. Your doctor may order medical tests to look for inflammation or other problems with the lung. This could include pulmonary function tests to determine how well your lungs work as well as blood tests, an lung biopsy and imaging tests. You are required to provide your medical background. This will include a list of all the medications you are taking and if any of your family members suffer from connective tissue disease or other health condition. It is important to inform your physician if you were exposed to asbestos, metal dusts or dusts, silica dusts, or any other odors while working. The exposure to toxic substances and chemicals in the workplace could cause a range of illnesses which include lung diseases interstitial such as pulmonary fibrosis. Long-term exposure to diesel exhaust fumes as well as other fumes increase the risk of developing cancer among workers particularly mesothelioma. This type of cancer is linked to asbestos fibers. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with railroad pulmonary fibrosis Contact our experienced FELA lawyers at Doran & Murphy to discuss the options available to file a lawsuit. Treatment Interstitial lung disease that causes inflammation and scarring in the lungs, has limited treatment options. The scarring can affect the way your lungs absorb oxygen and move it to your body. It can lead to breathing issues such as pulmonary fibrosis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. ILD is not curable, however doctors can help you manage your symptoms and lead a normal life. They might prescribe oxygen therapy, physical therapy or medication to lessen your symptoms. They may also prescribe medications to slow the development of lung scarring. Certain of these medications include corticosteroids as well as cytotoxic drugs and anti-fibrotic medicines like azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and Pirfenidone. Other medications include rituximab which is used to treat autoimmune conditions. Symptoms of interstitial lung symptoms vary for each person, and can range from mild to severe. Usually, they come on slowly over months or years and then get worse as lung damage gets worse. Breathing problems are often the first sign of ILD. It becomes worse when you exercise or work out. Rail workers exposed to fumes and dust, such as diesel and coal exhaust can develop serious respiratory conditions. These conditions can cause a serious impairment in quality of life and make it difficult to perform their duties and function normally. Railroads that fail to provide adequate ventilation or safety equipment may be held responsible for this kind of work-related illness as per the Federal Employers Liability Act.
Railroad Cancer Lawsuit Settlements
