aerospace worker that is being exposed to Beryllium

Beryllium is a rare toxic element found in volcanic dust, soil, coal, and certain minerals. It is a strong and naturally occurring metal that is released from burning coal and oil and settles on land and water. It is found in plants and some minerals, and is also present in extremely low levels in the food we eat, the air we breathe and the water we drink.

This is used in the field of X-ray diagnostics, aerospace, nuclear, and manufacturing industries. Due to its lightness and stiffness, it is also used in dental appliances, golf clubs, and wheelchairs. Exposure, in fact, should be maintained at low levels because inhalation or consumption of high levels of Beryllium is dangerous to health.

Diseases Linked to Beryllium

How dangerous is Beryllium? Here are some of the known dangers of Beryllium:

lungs

  • Berylliosis. The most dangerous means of exposure is through inhalation. High levels could lead to pneumonia-like conditions and inflammations in the respiratory system. Berylliosis, a lung disorder that also causes damage to other organs, is the most common known effect of the element. This condition often leads to death.
  • Chronic Beryllium Disease. A significant percentage of the population is sensitive to this metal, which is why it can cause allergic reactions. When the person who has been exposed becomes seriously ill, he may suffer Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD). CBD may cause weakness, fatigue, weight loss and enlargement of the heart.
  • Lung Cancer. Inhalation of high levels of Beryllium or exposure over a long period of time can also lead to lung cancer and DNA damage.

Aside from inhalation, Beryllium contact with cut skin may also cause rashes or skin ulcers. Individuals are not exposed to high levels of Beryllium every day. They are usually exposed to high levels in their work places such as factories and construction sites.

Have You Developed Cancer or a Severe Condition from Exposure to Beryllium?

personal injury lawyer working with client on a beryllium lawsuitIf you or a loved one have developed a serious medical condition after exposure of Beryllium, you may want to speak with a Beryllium Personal Injury Lawyer regarding a potential claim. d’Oliveira & Associates, the Rhode Island Personal Injury Lawyers, are working with some of the leading lawyers in the country who are handling these cases.

Please contact the Law Firm of d’Oliveira & Associates at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form for a free legal consultation.

Providence Personal Injury Lawyers | d’Oliveira & Associates

390 Broadway,
Providence, RI 02909

Phone: (401) 831-8600

Author Photo

Paul d’Oliveira

Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.

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