COPD Claims
COPD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. This condition refers to damaged airways in the lungs, causing them to become narrow, making it harder for air to get in and out of the lungs. The word ‘Chronic’ means this disease is long term. COPD is also a term used for a number of conditions such as Bronchitis and Emphysema.
Chronic bronchitis stands for 'inflammation of the bronchi'. The bronchi are the tubes or airways which carry oxygen from the air through the lungs. The inflammation increases mucus production in the airways, producing phlegm which makes you cough.
Emphysema is when the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs lose their elasticity, which reduces the support of the airways, causing them to narrow. It may, if severe, lead to people having difficulty absorbing enough oxygen. This can result in shortness of breath.
The most common symptoms of COPD are a persistent cough/phlegm, shortness of breath and chest infections. Once the damage of COPD has taken effect it cannot be reversed, however the symptoms can be treated through such means as inhalers, steroids, antibiotics and in worse case scenario can result in the need of oxygen tanks or even surgery to remove part of the diseased lung.
The cause of COPD can often be put down to smoking but airborne irritants such as coal dust, asbestos and solvents are all likely factors, meaning COPD can often be an occupational hazard.
The best diagnosis of COPD is a simple breath test that can be performed at your local GP’s surgery; this breath test is called a spirometry, which involves blowing into a machine to indicate if the airways have narrowed.
COPD normally affects people who are 40+ and is one of the most common reasons for hospital admittance in the UK, leaving a lot of people out of work, meaning a loss of earnings for many companies. If COPD has left you out of pocket due to not being able to work then Accident Consult can help you get back on track by giving you the chance to claim for personal injury compensation.
A no win no fee claim means any money that you are awarded for your personal injury claim, you keep, all the costs if you win are taken from the other side. We offer a free consultation with professional impartial advice on your claim. We will help you from start to finish and will tell you straight away over the phone if your case has a chance of winning.
If you have any questions or want more information regarding COPD claims or no win no fee claims in general, please do not hesitate to get in touch today and speak to one of our expert advisors.
Tags: breath test, loss of earnings |