Railroad Interstitial Lung DiseaseRailroad workers are at risk of developing lung diseases like pulmonary fibrosis or mesothelioma. They also have a higher chance of developing COPD due to exposure to diesel fumes.Some types of interstitial pulmonary disease progress, meaning that they become worse with time. The prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrisis is not good.Risk FactorsMany railroad workers are at risk for developing lung diseases that are debilitating. Railroad workers, especially those who have spent years in a working environment are often exposed to toxic fumes and other toxins that can cause lung diseases called interstitial. This is because long-term exposure to toxic chemicals can cause scarring in the lungs and make it more difficult for oxygen to pass through.Diesel exhaust fumes are the main cause of railroad interstitial lung disease. Diesel fumes are extremely irritating to the lungs and can cause COPD and other health issues such as lung cancer and respiratory failure.Other causes of the railroad interstitial lungs disease include environmental exposure to metal dust or stone dust. Other risk factors include the presence of hepatitis (including tuberculosis), pneumonia or a family history as well as comorbidities like GERD malignancy, GERD diabetes.Some railroad companies have been unable to warn their employees about the dangers of railroad work. This has resulted in the prevalence of lung diseases, such as pulmonary fibroids, among railroad workers who are in the profession. Families of railroad workers who suffer from these illnesses can sue the railroad under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) for damages. This could cover medical expenses and wages lost and pain and suffering and other damages related to the wrongful diagnosis.Signs and symptomsThe most commonly reported symptoms of the disease are breathlessness and a dry cough that doesn't disappear. Over time, the condition can lead to other health issues that make it difficult for people to breathe. It can cause life-threatening complications like breathing problems, pneumonia, or heart failure.The most severe signs of interstitial pulmonary disease that affects railroad workers include fatigue, joint pain in the toes and fingers and pulmonary fibrous. This scarring of the lung tissue blocks the lungs' ability to provide oxygen to the body. Patients with pulmonary fibrosis may also suffer from sleep problems and other immune-related symptoms.Inhaling asbestos can cause severe scarring of the lungs and can lead to other illnesses. It can cause cancer, like mesothelioma. It is an uncommon form of cancer that affects the lining of the chest cavity and other organs. It may also lead to the form of fibrosis known as asbestosis in the lungs and other conditions such as silicosis.Rail yard workers are exposed to chemicals, dust and fumes from freight train equipment and maintenance of tracks. Workers may be able to recover damages from FELA lawsuits for medical bills, lost wages and other expenses.DiagnosisIf you suffer from interstitial lung diseases, certain parts of your lung tissue are damaged and scarred. csx railroad lawsuit reduces the lungs' capacity in delivering oxygen to blood and other tissues. This can cause dry cough, fatigue, and breathing problems during activities. If not addressed, the problem could be life-threatening.To diagnose interstitial lung disorders Your doctor will order medical tests to determine inflammation and other problems in the lung. They may include pulmonary function tests that test the efficiency of your lungs and function, blood tests, lung biopsy, and imaging tests. You'll need to provide your medical history, which includes the list of medications you are taking and whether anyone in your family has connective tissue disorders or other health issues. union pacific railroad lawsuits should inform your doctor if you've been exposed to asbestos, metal dusts or dusts made of silica or any other fumes during working.Exposure to harmful chemicals and materials in the workplace can cause many illnesses, such as interstitial lung diseases such as pulmonary fibroids. Long-term exposure to diesel exhaust and other fumes can increase the likelihood of a worker being diagnosed with cancer, including mesothelioma which is a type of cancer that is caused by inhaling microscopic fibers of asbestos. Contact our experienced FELA attorneys at Doran & Murphy if you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis from railroads to discuss your options.TreatmentInterstitial lung disease that causes inflammation and scarring in the lungs, has a limited treatments. The scarring can affect the ability of your lungs to absorb oxygen and transport it to your body. It could lead to breathing issues like pulmonary fibrosis as well as interstitial pneumonia and hypersensitivity pneumonitis.There is no cure for ILD however, doctors can treat the symptoms and help you live a normal life. They may prescribe medications as well as oxygen supplemental therapy or physical therapy to reduce your symptoms. They can also use medications to slow the progression of lung scarring. Certain of these medications include corticosteroids as well as cytotoxic drugs and anti-fibrotic medications like azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and Pirfenidone. BNSF Railway lawsuit is a different medication that can be used to treat autoimmune disorders.The symptoms of interstitial pulmonary disease are different for each individual and can range from mild to severe. Usually, they manifest slowly over time, or even years and get worse as the lung damage worsens. Often, the first indication of ILD is breathlessness that gets worse with exercise or exertion.Railroad workers who were exposed to fumes and dust like diesel and coal exhaust, can suffer from a variety respiratory conditions. These conditions can cause a severe impairment to the quality of life and make it difficult to function and work normally. Railroads that do not provide adequate ventilation or safety equipment may be held responsible for this type of occupational illness under the Federal Employers Liability Act.