Even the safest workplaces can have hidden dangers that put you at risk for an occupational disease.
Compared to other areas of your life, you probably spend a lot of time at work. And ideally, the workplace you frequently occupy would be safe. However, the truth is, that even the safest workplaces can have hidden dangers that put you at risk for an occupational disease. Here are seven occupational diseases that may be lurking in your workplace:
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders
Do you work in a job that requires you to do a lot of lifting, typing, working in awkward positions, or other repetitive motions? You may be at risk for a musculoskeletal disorder. These disorders can affect your muscles, tendons, and nerves.
Common musculoskeletal disorders include Carpal tunnel syndrome, Tendonitis, Lower back pain, and Rotator cuff injuries. Sadly, these injuries can be extremely painful and debilitating. And if left untreated, they can lead to long-term damage.
If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort in your muscles, tendons, or joints, see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing these disorders from becoming worse.
2. Occupational Skin Diseases
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so it’s no surprise that it can be affected by your job. If you work with harsh chemicals or in a job that requires you to be in contact with irritants, you may be at risk for an occupational skin disease.
Common occupational skin diseases include Dermatitis, Eczema, and Contact urticaria. These conditions can be extremely itchy and uncomfortable. And in some cases, they can lead to serious infections.
3. Respiratory Diseases
Exposure to dust, chemicals, or other airborne irritants can put you at risk of respiratory disease. If you work in a job that exposes you to these irritants, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of respiratory diseases.
Common respiratory diseases include Asthma, Bronchitis, and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These diseases can make it difficult to breathe and can be extremely debilitating.
If you notice any changes in your breathing or have difficulty breathing, see a doctor right away. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these diseases from becoming worse.
4. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a serious condition that can profoundly affect your life. Sadly, continuous exposure to loud noises puts you at risk of Noise-induced hearing loss. Here are some symptoms to look out for; ringing in the ears, difficulty understanding speech, and increased sensitivity to sound. If you notice any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away.
5. Carbon-Dioxide Poisoning
Just as exposure to certain chemicals can put you at risk for respiratory disease, exposure to carbon dioxide can put you at risk for carbon-dioxide poisoning. Unfortunately, unlike other gases, carbon dioxide is odorless and colorless, so it’s difficult to know when you’re being exposed to it.
However, this occupational hazard can have serious consequences. Symptoms of carbon dioxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, and nausea. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to get to fresh air immediately and see a doctor right away.
6. Lead Poisoning
Exposure to lead can put you at risk for lead poisoning. Unfortunately, like carbon dioxide, lead is odorless and colorless, so it’s difficult to know when you’re being exposed to it.
Symptoms of lead poisoning include abdominal pain, constipation, irritability, and memory loss. If you notice any of these symptoms after joining a new job or after being exposed to a new work environment, see a doctor right away.
Also, inform your employer as soon as possible, so they can take the necessary steps to protect other employees from exposure.
7. Computer-Vision Syndrome
Computers are everywhere these days. And while they’ve made our lives easier in many ways, they’ve also created a new occupational hazard: computer-vision syndrome. If you work at a job that requires you to stare at a computer screen for long periods, you may be at risk for this condition.
Common symptoms of computer vision syndrome include headaches, blurry vision, and neck and shoulder pain. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention.
St. Louis Workers Compensation Attorneys
If you suffer from an occupational disease, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. At the Law Office of James M. Hoffman, we have over 30 years of experience handling workers’ compensation claims. We know how to navigate the system and get injured Missouri workers the benefits they need and deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.