Occupational Respiratory Illness

Many workers develop breathing problems that are tied directly to their job, even if the symptoms take time to show up. An occupational respiratory illness can come from repeated exposure to dust, chemicals, or poor air circulation in places like warehouses, construction zones, or factories. 

If this sounds familiar, your Riverside lung injury lawyer from DiMarco | Araujo | Montevideo can explain what options may be available based on your work history and diagnosis.

What It Means When Breathing Trouble Starts at Work

Breathing problems that start at work can be easy to miss at first. A little coughing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness might feel like something minor. However, exposure to dust, fumes, or mold adds up, and many people do not realize what is happening until the damage is already done.

Jobs and Workplaces That Can Increase Your Risk

Some jobs are more likely to cause lung issues than others. We often see problems in warehouse work, industrial plants, janitorial services, agriculture, and construction. These jobs tend to involve long hours in spaces with poor air flow or constant exposure to irritants.

Common Lung Conditions That May Be Work-Related

Certain diagnoses show up again and again in job-related respiratory cases. These include asthma, chronic bronchitis, occupational pneumonia, diacetyl lung disease, COPD, and silicosis. Some start with mild symptoms, while others may come on suddenly after years in the same role.

What to Do If You Think Your Job Caused Your Lung Illness

If you are having breathing problems that started or got worse at work, say something early. Many workers do not realize that occupational respiratory illnesses are covered by workers’ compensation.

Under California Labor Code § 3600, you may be eligible for benefits even if your symptoms took time to develop. Here are some steps you can take right now to protect yourself:

• Report your symptoms to your supervisor or HR in writing
• Ask if you need to see an approved provider under your employer’s plan
• Request copies of any work-related injury or illness reports
• Save your own records from urgent care or your primary doctor
• Ask about getting a second opinion if your diagnosis does not feel complete
• Keep track of how often your symptoms flare up and what seems to trigger them

How Our Firm Helps People With Work-Related Lung Injuries

If you feel like no one has taken your symptoms seriously, you are not the only one. We have handled many cases involving construction injuries and other workplace risks in Riverside, especially where air quality or exposure concerns were ignored.

We Know How to Prove Your Job Made You Sick

We know what kind of proof makes a difference in cases like this. That includes documenting exposure, working with medical experts, and showing a clear timeline between your job and your diagnosis. Our firm understands how to pull those pieces together so your case gets the attention it deserves.

We Will Not Let You Get Ignored or Dismissed

Being ignored when something is wrong with your health is frustrating, isolating, and unfair. We listen closely and make sure your concerns are taken seriously from day one. You will not have to wonder if your case is being moved to the bottom of the stack. Our team is committed to making sure you are seen, heard, and treated with respect throughout the process.

A Lawyer You Can Count On

Breathing issues from your job are real, and you deserve to be taken seriously. Your lung injury lawyer in Riverside at DiMarco | Araujo | Montevideo can help you understand your options and how your work conditions may be connected.

If you have questions about your symptoms or how to file a claim, contact us to talk with someone who knows what matters in these cases.