Pleural thickening claims
Pleural thickening is a benign or non-cancerous condition that can be caused by asbestos exposure. Sufferers often experience chest pains and breathlessness, sometimes leading to serious conditions such as mesothelioma
what the directories say
‘Leigh Day have assembled what is probably the most experienced team of asbestos lawyers anywhere in the UK.‘"
Legal 500 2021
Ready to talk?
Speak to one of our expert lawyers in complete confidence, with no obligation. Call freephone 0800 6895854
Pleural thickening FAQs
If the scarring becomes widespread and covers a large area, it can cause the pleura to thicken. This may make it difficult for the lungs to expand, which can cause breathlessness – known as diffuse pleural thickening . Pleural thickening can occur in one lung (unilateral) or both lungs (bilateral).
Diffuse pleural thickening is a different condition to pleural plaques, which are isolated and discrete areas of thickening. Doctors believe that pleural plaques only rarely cause symptoms.
If you have been diagnosed with the condition, then you may be able to bring a pleural thickening claim against the individual or organisation responsible for your asbestos exposure.
Our specialist team of personal injury solicitors will listen to you and advise on whether you have a claim and what to do
It is a latent disease – meaning it may take many years after the asbestos exposure took place for the symptoms to emerge. Typically, this can be at least 10 or 15 years after exposure, but often much longer.
Other causes of pleural thickening not caused by asbestos include:
- Types of medication
- Infections
- Tuberculosis
- Injuries from an accident
- Radiotherapy
- Some types of tumours
- Discomfort
- Chest pains
- Breathlessness
Symptoms may be more noticeable after physical exertion. The level of disability can vary, from being mild or moderate to severe and debilitating. The condition can remain stable but sometimes breathlessness and disability get worse over time.
To make a pleural thickening claim, you need a diagnosis from a doctor. If you experience any of the above symptoms and think you may be suffering from pleural thickening, arrange a doctor’s appointment first, before taking any further action.
The diagnosis is usually made following a chest x-ray or CT scan. Treating doctors may arrange for follow-up appointments to check the condition does not progress. Sometimes, respiratory physiotherapy may be offered, depending on the circumstances.
If you are diagnosed with diffuse pleural thickening, you should seek legal advice about bringing a pleural thickening compensation claim.
Employers owe a duty of care to provide a safe working environment and may be legally at fault if they exposed you to asbestos.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and developed pleural thickening you may be able to bring a claim. Generally, those working in construction are more likely to be exposed to asbestos and develop the condition. These professions include:
- Boilermakers
- Builders
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Pipe fitters
- Plumbers
It is important to instruct specialist pleural thickening solicitors experienced in acting for asbestos sufferers. Arrange a free initial consultation with one of our team to discuss your claim.
We may need to gather supporting evidence, such as:
- Medical records and documents
- Witness statements from colleagues and medical professionals
- Photographs of your working environment
- Financial records
There are time limits for bringing claims for personal injury, such as pleural thickening. Therefore, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Insurance companies brought a test case to stop claims for pleural plaques and following a court decision in 2007, it is no longer possible to recover compensation for this condition.
If you have pleural thickening, then there is a risk you may develop another type of asbestos disease. Therefore, you can choose to settle your claim on a provisional basis.
This means you preserve the right to come back and apply for more compensation if you develop another asbestos related illness.
If your claim is successful, you will recover compensation for the impact the illness has on your lifestyle and the physical effects it causes you. This is known as damages for pain, suffering and loss of amenity.
You may also be able to claim for any:
- Out of pocket expenses – travel costs, accommodation, admin.
- Loss of earnings – whether for a temporary or permanent period of time off work.
- Care – including treatment, rehabilitation and therapy sessions, alongside equipment or home adaptations to support your recovery.
If you are no longer able to do DIY, gardening and other types of domestic tasks, then you can claim for loss of your services.
Levels of pleural thickening compensation awarded varies considerably depending on the facts of each particular case.
Ex-British Uralite worker develops pleural thickening from asbestos exposure
A man has settled his claim and received an admission of liability from Kent-based British Uralite following his development of pleural thickening caused by exposure to asbestos.