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The Link Between Exposure to Asbestos and Diseases

Medical research has proven that exposure to asbestos can lead to a variety of non-cancerous and malignant illnesses. This includes lung cancers, pleural diseases, and asbestosis.

Asbestos-containing substances can be exposed when disturbed by air, releasing fibers. The fibers are then breathed in or swallowed. Disease symptoms typically occur over a period of time following exposure.

Signs and symptoms

Inhaling asbestos can cause lung diseases like pleural plaques and mesothelioma. The reason is because the fibers can cause irritation to the lungs. They can also cling to the cells that compose the lungs and remain there for a long period of time.

Most of the time it takes a long time for these conditions to develop following exposure to asbestos. People can be exposed to asbestos in a number of ways, including when working with the material, during demolition, and while renovating or repairing houses. This is because the products that contain asbestos are more likely to be smashed, and the tiny fibers will be released into the air.

Inhaling asbestos fibers, they pass through the mouth and nose and get carried into the lungs. These particles can't be filtered and therefore, they build up in the lungs, causing irritation and scarring. The body tries to remove the asbestos by creating more mucus, however this isn't always enough. People who are exposed to high levels of asbestos have more in their lung.

In the worst cases of asbestos exposure, mesothelioma can develop. This rare cancer affects the linings of the lungs and lower digestive tract. Mesothelioma can cause severe and sometimes fatal symptoms, such as breathing problems, coughing and chest pain. It typically takes a number of years for mesothelioma's development, and it usually only occurs after prolonged exposure to asbestos.

Asbestosis is one of the most prevalent symptoms that are associated with asbestos exposure. This makes it difficult to draw oxygen into and out of lung. X-rays and lung function tests are often used to diagnose it. Lack of oxygen can also cause a bluish tint to the skin.

Other symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and persistent coughing. If you suspect you've had exposure to asbestos in the past and have these symptoms, you should consult your local Veterans Health Service or GP. They can refer you to a specialist if necessary. The majority of people who have been exposed to asbestos do not have any serious illness, but it is important to let your GP to know about your exposure history.

Diagnosis

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed they release tiny fibers into air. Once inhaled these fibers can get into the lung tissue and cause serious diseases. They include mesothelioma and asbestosis and lung cancer.

These conditions can be difficult to diagnoses because of their long latency period. It may take up to 20 years for symptoms to be evident. The first indication that something is not right could be breathing problems or a persistent cough. If you suspect that you've been exposed to asbestos, and you are experiencing any symptoms, it's essential to consult your GP.

The doctor will inquire about your work and lifestyle, as well as your family background. The doctor will then employ the stethoscope and listen to your lungs to determine if there are any abnormal sounds. These could indicate that your lungs are affected by asbestos exposure. The doctor might recommend an X-ray of your chest CT scan or X-ray to determine extent of any damage. You can also get more information about the condition of your lungs.

The most common symptoms are breathing difficulties. It is caused by scarring of the lung tissues and the accumulation of fluid around the lungs. A doctor will use the instrument to listen for crackling sounds when you breathe. The doctor will also test your lung capacity and flow using a spirometer.

If your doctor suspects you suffer from asbestosis, he or she will prescribe steroids to help reduce inflammation and speed up healing. They will also give you breathing exercises that you can practice at home. This will ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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

Mesothelioma is an uncommon cancerous type that affects the abdomen's lining and lungs is a rare kind of cancer. Mesothelioma takes years to develop so symptoms are usually not noticed until older age.

Treatment

Asbestos can cause serious diseases. While some asbestos-related illnesses are not serious, others can be fatal. This includes lung cancer and mesothelioma. Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that develops on the lining of chest and abdominal cavities. Malignant mesothelioma usually results from long-term exposure to asbestos. Malignant mesothelioma may affect anyone even those with little asbestos exposure.

If asbestos-containing materials are handled incorrectly, they can release microscopic fibers into the atmosphere. These fibers are so small that they can float in air and stick to clothing, making it easy to swallow or inhale. These small invisible fibers can penetrate deep into the lungs, and remain there for a long time. They can also cause many other illnesses that include cancers and fibrotic lung diseases.

Exposure to occupational hazards is the most common exposure to which people are exposed. The highest risk of asbestos exposure is for those working in mines, factories and construction sites. Students who work in older homes or schools and military personnel, could also be exposed to asbestos. Certain people are exposed to asbestos through second-hand exposure for example, from employees who handle it or through home renovations that involve old pipes and insulation.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. Asbestos is an elemental mineral in large deposits or as an contaminant in other minerals. Asbestos tremolite (also known as blue asbestos) is found in deposits of vermiculite and chrysotile. It is used in the manufacture of building and household materials, such as roofing, flooring, shingles and cement. It is also a popular ingredient in automobile brakes, clutches and transmission parts.

Your doctor will monitor your condition to determine if it is getting worse. Your doctor may use breathing tests, a chest X-ray or CT scan to determine how serious the condition is and how well your lungs are functioning. You may be prescribed aerosol medication to thin the fluid in your lungs, oxygen through a masks or a respirator.

Prevention

The most effective method to prevent asbestos related diseases is to not disturb asbestos containing materials (ACM). ACM is able to function normally and pose no risk to health if it is not disturbed. If it is disturbed during demolition or renovation the tiny fibers could become airborne. They can be inhaled or consumed. Once the fibers enter the body they can damage the lungs and other organs, resulting in mesothelioma and eventually a lung disease known as asbestosis. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are not caused through a single exposure they can result from repeated, even low levels of exposure over a number of years.

People who get sick from asbestos are usually exposed to it regularly by direct contact or through a significant exposure to the environment. Ship repair and construction jobs involving demolition, remodeling or renovation of old buildings and ships are the most hazardous. Other risk factors include living with someone who works with asbestos or who works in asbestos mines or factories.

Asbestos is comprised of a range of naturally occurring minerals. It was extensively used due to its fire-resistant and corrosion resistant properties. When these asbestos-containing materials are disturbed the tiny fibers can be airborne and be inhaled or ingested. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause scarring of the lungs, as well as other parts of your body. This could lead to cancer.

The signs of asbestos exposure generally are not evident until 15 to 30 years after the first exposure. As  Vallejo asbestos attorney , asbestos is considered to be an ongoing risk.

Asbestos is a hazard that is still present in many old buildings, schools, and military housing. Because of this it is essential that asbestos-containing materials aren't touched or removed by anyone other than an accredited professional. It is also essential that any asbestos containing materials which are in the process of being maintained be placed in a closed and controlled area to limit the risk of the fibers becoming airborne.