Can an oil rig fire cause you to develop asthma?

If you work on an oil rig, you are probably no stranger to tough working conditions. Even though you expect the well to be a reasonably safe place to work, you can never eliminate your risk of suffering a catastrophic injury. This is especially true if the oil rig bursts into flames.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, oil well fires can cause individuals to develop asthma. Asthma is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that happens when narrow passageways in the lungs constrict while producing excess mucus.

How can oil rig fires cause asthma?

Oil rig fires tend to produce copious amounts of toxic smoke. The particulates in this smoke can irritate your lungs. In extreme cases, smoke from oil fires can lead to scarring of lung tissue. If you already have asthma, oil well smoke may exacerbate your condition. That is, you may be at risk of having a flare-up or attack.

How can you treat asthma?

Because asthma can lead to a variety of negative health outcomes and even death, you must not take its symptoms lightly. After obtaining a diagnosis, you should find the treatment plan that works for you. Often, the right treatment plan includes daily medication and a rescue inhaler.

When should you go to the emergency room?

It is important to note that you may not be able to control your asthma with your daily medication and rescue inhaler. If you have inhaled any smoke from an oil fire, it is advisable to go to the emergency room for a full examination. Doctors in the ER are likely to have access to rapid treatments that may save your life.

Ultimately, to pay for the treatment you need, you may have little choice but to pursue financial compensation for any injuries you suffer from inhaling smoke.