Key Takeaways
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a group of progressive lung diseases, mainly emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that block airflow and make breathing difficult.
- Cigarette smoking is the leading cause, but workplace exposure to dust, fumes, chemicals, and asbestos-containing materials can also contribute.
- Workers in construction, mining, shipyards, power plants, and other industrial settings face a higher risk.
- Common symptoms include chronic cough, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and frequent respiratory infections.
- COPD has no cure, but medication, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms.
- Workers exposed to asbestos may also be at risk for asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. If you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, call 800-505-6000 for a free case review.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a term to characterize a number of chronic lung diseases that make it difficult for a victim to breathe. The main cause of COPD is exposure to harmful environmental factors. Factors that can contribute to the development of COPD include:
- Cigarette smoke
- Pollution
- Dust particles
- Working around asbestos and asbestos-containing materials
- Exposure to chemicals though occupation
Those who work in construction, mining, agriculture, shipyards, power plants, and other industrial settings are more susceptible to developing COPD. These workplaces have dangerous chemicals and dust.
COPD Symptoms
Since COPD revolves around the lungs and breathing issues, victims typically experience symptoms pertaining to these areas. Symptoms include:
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- Chronic cough
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in chest and wheezing
- Breathlessness
- Frequent respiratory infections
See a doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing these symptoms. They can prescribe the necessary treatment and develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs.
Treatment
While treatment will vary for every case and situation, individuals should all follow the suggestion of their health care provider. Common treatment options include medication, therapy and rehabilitation, lifestyle adjustments (diet, exercise, etc.), and surgery.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for financial compensation. The Halpern Law Firm has over 35 years of experience in fighting for victims of asbestos. For more information and a free consultation, call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does COPD stand for?
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is an umbrella term for long-term lung conditions, mainly emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that narrow or damage the airways and make it harder to move air in and out of the lungs.
Can asbestos exposure cause COPD?
Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, but occupational exposure to dusts, fumes, and chemicals also contributes, and some research links asbestos exposure to airway obstruction. Asbestos is more strongly associated with other lung diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which are the conditions most often involved in asbestos claims.
What is the difference between COPD and asbestosis?
COPD is an obstructive disease that narrows the airways and makes it hard to breathe out. Asbestosis is a restrictive disease in which inhaled asbestos fibers cause scarring (fibrosis) of lung tissue, which makes it hard for the lungs to expand. Both cause shortness of breath, so imaging, lung function tests, and a detailed work history are important for an accurate diagnosis.
How is COPD diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose COPD with spirometry, a simple breathing test that measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly. Chest X-rays, CT scans, and blood tests may also be used to rule out other conditions. Tell your doctor about any past work around asbestos, dust, or chemicals.
Can COPD be cured?
No. COPD is a chronic, progressive disease, but treatment can slow its progression and improve quality of life. Common treatments include inhalers and other medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, quitting smoking, and in some advanced cases, surgery.
Does COPD increase the risk of lung cancer?
Yes. People with COPD have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. For people with a history of asbestos exposure, the risk is greater, and it is especially high for those who also smoked, because asbestos and smoking together multiply lung cancer risk.
Can I file an asbestos claim if I have COPD?
A COPD diagnosis alone typically is not the basis for an asbestos claim. However, people with a history of asbestos exposure who are diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis may be entitled to compensation. If you worked around asbestos and have been diagnosed with a lung disease, call The Halpern Law Firm at 800-505-6000 for a free review of your situation.
