Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is extracted from the ground. Because of its fire-resistant qualities, it has been utilized in a number of products, including insulation, flooring, and shingles. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they may become trapped in the lungs and induce a slew of serious health problems.
In this blog, we will take a look at some of the more common asbestos-related health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. We'll explain what each is, how it affects the body and why it's dangerous.
Asbestos Diseases
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that occurs in the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen. It is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Symptoms of mesothelioma can include shortness of breath, chest pain and fatigue. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, the cancer has often spread too far to be treated effectively.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is an incurable lung condition caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and coughing are all symptoms. Asbestosis can cause lung scarring and respiratory failure in severe cases.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in America. While smoking undeniably heightens one's risk of developing lung cancer, exposure to asbestos fibers can also play a role. Symptoms of this disease may include coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. Remember: early detection is key to successful treatment down the line.
Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion (fluid accumulation around the lungs), pleural thickening (thickening of the lining around the lungs) and bronchial issues are possible. Shortness of breath, coughing, and chest discomfort are examples of these problems.
Asbestos exposure can also lead to other, less common health conditions, such as:
- gastrointestinal cancers
- kidney cancer
- laryngeal cancer
- ovarian cancer
If you have any reason to believe you've been exposed to asbestos, it's crucial that you closely monitor your health and see a medical professional if any symptoms develop. There is currently no cure for diseases related to asbestos exposure, however, treatment can help lessen symptoms and improve quality of life. Those with occupations at high risk for asbestos exposure should be extra cautious. Testing for asbestos is the best way to determine if your property contains dangerous material.
Exposure to asbestos can come from a variety of sources, including:
- working in an asbestos-contaminated environment
- living in a home with asbestos-containing materials
- being exposed to asbestos dust and fibers
If you discover asbestos in your home or workplace, you should hire a professional asbestos removal company to do so. Never try to remove asbestos on your own because this may release dangerous fibers into the air and expose you to risk.
Related - The Ultimate Guide To Asbestos: Health Risks & Removal