The Link Between Exposure to Asbestos and Diseases

Medical research has linked exposure to asbestos to several non-cancerous and cancerous diseases. This includes lung cancers, pleural disease and asbestosis.

Asbestos-containing substances can be exposed when disturbed, releasing fibers into air. These fibers are then inhaled or swallowed. Disease symptoms typically take a long time to manifest after exposure.

Symptoms

Asbestos inhalation can cause lung diseases such as mesothelioma and pleural plaques. The reason for this is that the asbestos fibers irritate the lungs. They also can adhere to the lungs' cells for a long period of time.

It could take years to recover from the conditions to develop after exposure to asbestos. People can be exposed asbestos in many ways, including from working with the material, in demolition work, and when renovating or repairing houses. Asbestos-containing products are likely to be disturbed and release tiny fibers into the air.

When inhaled, asbestos fibers are absorbed by the nose and mouth and get carried into the lungs. They aren't able to be removed and therefore, they build up in the lungs causing irritation and scarring. The body attempts to remove asbestos by producing more mucus, however this isn't always enough. Aurora asbestos lawsuit who are exposed to high levels of asbestos have more asbestos in their lung.

In the worst instances, exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma to develop, a rare cancer that affects the lung's lining (pleura) and the interior of the lower digestive tract. Mesothelioma can trigger grave and fatal symptoms such as chest pain, breathing difficulties and coughing. It usually takes a long time for mesothelioma's development and typically occurs after prolonged exposure to asbestos.

The most common result of exposure to asbestos is lung disease, especially scarring of the lung (asbestosis). This makes it more difficult to get oxygen into and out of lungs. X-rays and lung function tests are often used to detect it. It may also cause a blue skin tone due to lack of oxygen.

Other symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath and persistent coughing. If you suspect that you've been exposed to asbestos in the past and experience these symptoms, you should consult your local Veterans' Health Service or GP. If needed, they will refer you to an expert. Most people who have been exposed to asbestos don't suffer from any serious illness, but it is important to let your GP to know about your exposure history.

Diagnosis

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged they release tiny fibers into the air. After inhalation, these fibers can be absorbed into the lung tissue, causing various serious illnesses. This includes mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

It can be difficult to diagnose these conditions because they have an extended latency time that can take 20 years or more for symptoms to appear. The first sign of trouble can be breathing difficulties or a cough. If you suspect that you've been exposed to asbestos, and you are experiencing any symptoms, it's important to speak to your GP.

Your doctor will inquire about your life and work and any family history. The doctor will then perform an examination using a stethoscope to look at your lungs for any abnormal noises. These can be a sign that your lungs are scarred from asbestos exposure. The doctor may suggest a chest CT scan or X-ray scan to determine the extent of any damage and get more information about your lung condition.

The most common symptoms are breathing difficulties. It is caused by scarring of the lung tissues and a build-up of fluid around the lungs. A doctor will use a stethoscope and listen for crackling noises when you breathe. He or she will also test the capacity of your lungs and flow using an Spirometer.

If your GP suspects you have asbestosis, he or she might prescribe steroids to ease the inflammation and accelerate healing. You will also be instructed on breathing exercises at home. This will help to ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Another symptom that could be indicative of asbestosis are plaques in the pleura which are thick, swollen spots on the lining of your lung. These can be calcified, however, the majority of them aren't. They are not the same as lung cancer or mesothelioma and will not increase the risk of those diseases.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancerous form that affects the lining of the abdomen and the lungs, is a rare type of cancer. It takes a long time for mesothelioma to develop and most people don't experience symptoms until they're older.

Treatment

Asbestos can cause serious diseases. Certain asbestos-related illnesses are benign while others could be fatal. Lung cancer and mesothelioma are two of the most common. Malignant mesothelioma develops on the lining of chest and abdominal cavities. Malignant mesothelioma is usually caused by exposure to asbestos for long periods of time. Certain people are at greater risk of developing malignant mesothelioma more than others, however, even those who have experienced only a small amount of exposure can still get it.

If asbestos-containing substances are handled incorrectly, they can release microscopic fibers into the atmosphere. These fibers are so small that they could hang in the air and stick to clothing, making it easier to inhale or swallow. These tiny invisible fibers can travel deep into the lungs and stay there for years. They can also cause various other illnesses that include cancers and fibrotic lung disease.

The most frequent way that people are exposed to asbestos is through occupational exposure. People who worked in mines factories, construction sites, and shipyards are at most danger of exposure. However, those who work in schools, older homes or in the military could also be at risk of exposure to asbestos. Some people are exposed asbestos via exposure to second-hand sources like from workers who handle it or through home renovations that include old pipes and insulation.

Asbestos is naturally occurring. It is found in huge natural deposits or as a contaminant in other minerals. Asbestos Tremolite (also called blue asbestos) is found in vermiculite deposits and chrysotile. It is used to make building and household materials like flooring, shingles, cement, and roofing. It is also used in the manufacture of automobile clutches and brakes.

Your doctor will be monitoring your condition to determine if it worsens. Your doctor might perform breathing tests, a chest X-ray or CT scan to determine how serious the condition is and how well your lungs function. You could be prescribed aerosol medicine to thin the fluid in your lungs, oxygen through mask or a respirator.

Prevention

The most effective method to prevent the spread of asbestos-related illnesses is to avoid causing disturbances to asbestos-containing materials (ACM). ACM can continue to function normally and not pose any danger to health if it is not disturbed. If it is damaged during renovation or demolition the tiny fibers could be released into the air. They could then be inhaled or eaten. Once the fibers enter the body they can damage the organs of the lungs, as well as other organs, resulting into mesothelioma and eventually a lung disease known as asbestosis. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are not caused through a single exposure but can develop from repeated, even low levels of exposure over a number of years.

People who develop illness due to asbestos typically have been exposed to it regularly, often in a job that required direct contact or a substantial exposure to the environment. Construction and ship repair jobs that involve demolition, remodeling or renovation of old ships and buildings are the most dangerous. Other risks include living with someone who regularly works with asbestos or who works in asbestos factories or mines.

Asbestos is a collection of naturally occurring minerals. It was extensively used due to its fire retardant and corrosion resistant properties. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, the microscopic fibers can become airborne and be breathed in or ingested. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can move through the lungs as well as other parts of the body and cause scarring that eventually leads to cancer.

The signs of exposure to asbestos generally do not appear until 15-30 years after the initial exposure. As a result, asbestos is considered to be a risk for the long-term.

Asbestos is a dangerous material that is still found in a variety of old buildings, schools and military housing. Because of this it is essential that any suspected asbestos containing materials are not handled or removed by anyone other than an accredited professional. It is also crucial that any asbestos containing materials that are undergoing maintenance be placed in a closed and controlled area to limit the chance of the fibers becoming airborne.
Aurora asbestos lawsuit