Newswise — The explosion that occurred in an Arlington Heights factory that killed one and injured several others may have a long-lasting physical and emotional impact on fellow workers and community members, according to Mary Capelli-Schellpfeffer, MD, medical director of occupational health at Loyola University Health System.

“After an industrial accident, even if someone can ‘walk away’ without visible injuries, it doesn’t mean there aren’t health concerns,” Capelli-Schellpfeffer said.

She encourages anyone who was near the scene to be medically evaluated as soon as possible if he or she experiences:

Headache; hearing changes; sleep disturbances, such as nightmares; nausea; trouble breathing or anxious feelings.

“Even after authorities have determined the cause of today’s explosion, the uncertainty and worry about the tragedy can continue for several weeks or months. It’s important during this time to help employees and neighbors to stay focused to limit additional injuries,” Capelli-Schellpfeffer said.

Capelli-Schellpfeffer is an expert in the management and treatment of occupational health and safety concerns, including workplace injuries, hazardous exposures and job physicals.

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