Popcorn Lung

October 24, 2009

The name "popcorn lung" comes from the fact that people who work in the popcorn industry are more likely to develop this condition than the general population.

KANSAS CITY, MO, October 24, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Popcorn lung is another name for a serious lung disease called Bronchiolitis Obliterans (BO). The name "popcorn lung" comes from the fact that people who work in the popcorn industry are more likely to develop this condition than the general population.

Occurrence of popcorn lung has been linked to inhalation of Diacetyl, a compound used to give popcorn and other snacks a buttery flavor. Popcorn lung causes extensive, irreversible damage to the small airways in the lungs, leaving them closed off due to inflammation and scarring.

Who is at Risk to Develop Popcorn Lung?
Bronchiolitis Obliterans occurs rarely among the general population and is thought to occur as an occasional side effect of organ transplant rejection or premature birth. More commonly, it is caused by inhalation of toxins, including Diacetyl.

People who work in the manufacture of popcorn and other snacks that use Diacetyl to provide a butter flavor are much more likely to develop this rare disease. Most endangered by exposure to this compound are people who develop flavorings and those who test pop popcorn, since their exposure to Diacetyl is the most extensive.

Symptoms and Treatment of Popcorn Lung
The symptoms of popcorn lung are similar to other respiratory problems and are often mistaken for asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, or emphysema. Popcorn lung causes:

• Severe shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Dry cough

These symptoms often develop slowly over a period of time, but they can also come on more quickly.

Popcorn lung is irreversible, and there is no real treatment. Removal from exposure to Diacetyl will stop the progression of the disease, but will not reverse existing damage. In severe cases, sufferers must seek a lung transplant.

Seeking Compensation for Popcorn Lung
Several lawsuits currently pending seek compensation for people who have developed popcorn lung as a result of exposure to Diacetyl. If you or a loved one has been exposed to Diacetyl and suffer respiratory symptoms, a consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer will help you lay the foundation for your claim. These cases are complex and difficult, and they require the expertise of an attorney who has dealt with similar cases before.

For more information about popcorn lung and existing litigation regarding this serious condition, please contact nationwide pharmaceutical injury attorneys Schlichter, Bogard & Denton today to schedule your initial consultation.

Website: http://www.druginjuryinformation.com

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