Also referred to as benzol, benzene is a clear, sweet smelling, highly flammable liquid that is known to cause cancer with long-term exposure. In addition to being a component of crude and refined oil, benzene is also found in a number of industrial products, such as:

• Detergents
• Dyes
• Explosives
• Lubricants
• Pesticides
• Plastics
• Rubbers
• Solvents

Where Benzene Exposure Occurs

People may be exposed to toxic benzene by:

• Fumes from glue, paint, furniture wax, solvents or detergents
• Gas stations
• Gasoline
• Hazardous waste sites
• Industrial emissions
• Leaks in underground storage tanks
• Motor vehicle exhaust
• Tobacco or wood smoke

Symptoms of Benzene Exposure

Breathing in high levels of benzene in a short a period of time can cause death. With low levels of benzene exposure (inhaled, eaten or drank), individuals may experience:

• Convulsions
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headaches
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Rapid heart rate
• Tremors
• Unconsciousness

Anyone who starts developing these symptoms and suspects benzene exposure should seek emergency medical care to prevent potentially fatal complications.

Health Effects of Benzene Exposure

Benzene's harmful effects primarily affect the blood. More specifically, when people have been exposed to benzene for over a year, they are at risk of developing serious benzene health problems, including:

• Anemia
• Bone marrow damage
• Decrease in ovary size
• Depressed immune system
• Excessive bleeding
• Increased risk of infection
• Irregular menstruation
• Leukemia and other blood-related cancers

Without prompt, thorough treatments, most of these conditions could lead to death. While the precise course of treatment will depend on the nature and severity of the conditions, in many cases, treatment regimens may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, medication and palliative care.

Compensation for Benzene Injuries

If you or a loved one has suffered benzene injuries at work, at home, or in a public location, you may be entitled to a settlement that will compensate you for your medical bills, permanent disabilities and pain and suffering. Injured parties can learn more about their legal rights by contacting Gacovino, Lake and Associates.

Our injury and wrongful death law firm is committed to helping victims of toxic substances recover compensation for their injuries.

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