15 Astonishing Facts About Exposure To Asbestos

The Link Between Exposure to Asbestos and Diseases

Medical research has proven that exposure to asbestos can lead to a range of non-cancerous as well as malignant illnesses. This includes lung cancer, pleural disease and asbestosis.

Exposure happens when asbestos-containing materials are agitated and released fibers into the air. These fibers are then inhaled or swallowed. The symptoms of the disease typically occur over a period of time following exposure.

Signs and symptoms

Asbestos inhalation can cause lung diseases, such as pleural plaques and mesothelioma. The fibers can cause irritation to the lung tissue. They can also cling to the cells that make up the lungs, and stay there for a long period of time.

It can take years for these conditions after asbestos exposure. Asbestos can be consumed in a variety of ways, for instance as when working with asbestos or during demolition, or when renovating a house. This is because the products that contain asbestos are more likely to be disturbed and the tiny fibers could be released into the air.

Asbestos fibers are inhaled through the nose, mouth and the lungs. They are unable to be removed, and they accumulate in the lungs, causing irritation and scarring. The body attempts to remove asbestos by producing more mucus. However, this is not always enough. The people who are exposed high levels of asbestos have more in their lungs.

In the most severe cases of asbestos exposure, mesothelioma can develop. This rare cancer affects the linings of the lungs and lower digestive tract. Mesothelioma is a serious and often fatal symptoms, like breathing difficulties, coughing, and chest pain. It typically takes a number of years for mesothelioma to develop, and it usually only is discovered after exposure to asbestos.

The most frequent result of exposure to asbestos is lung disease, specifically scarring of the lungs (asbestosis). This makes it harder to draw oxygen into and out of lung. It is often diagnosed with x-rays or a lung function test. It can also cause a blue skin tone due to a lack of oxygen.

Other symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain, as well as constant coughing. If you suspect you've had exposure to asbestos in the past and are suffering from these symptoms, it is recommended to consult your local Veterans Health Service or GP. If needed, they will refer you to an expert. Most people who are exposed to asbestos don't suffer from any serious illness however it is essential for your GP to be aware of the history of exposure.

Diagnosis

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed they release tiny fibers into the air. After inhalation, these fibers may become entangled in lung tissue, causing numerous serious illnesses. This includes mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer.

It can be difficult to diagnose these conditions because they have an extended latency time which can last for 20 years or more for symptoms to show up. The first sign of trouble can be breathing problems or a cough. This is the reason it's so important to consult your GP if you think you have been exposed to asbestos and have any of the symptoms.

The doctor will inquire about your job and lifestyle and also your family history. The doctor will perform an examination using a stethoscope to listen to your lungs for any abnormal noises. These sounds can indicate scarring of the lungs from asbestos exposure. The doctor may also suggest a chest X-ray or CT scan to obtain more specific information about your lung health and determine the severity of any damage.

The most frequent symptom of asbestosis is difficulty breathing. The condition is caused by scarring within the lung tissues and fluid accumulation around the lungs. A doctor will use a stethoscope to listen for crackling sounds when you breathe. A spirometer will be used to measure the capacity of your lungs and flow.

If your doctor suspects you are suffering from asbestosis, he/ will prescribe steroids to help reduce inflammation and speed healing. You will also be given breathing exercises at home. This will help ease your symptoms and improve the quality of your life.

Another possible symptom of asbestosis could be the pleural plaques, which are thick spots on the lining of your lung. They may be calcified however, most aren't. These are not the mesothelioma and lung cancer nor do they increase the risk.

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

Treatment

Asbestos exposure can cause many serious diseases. Certain asbestos-related diseases are harmless, but others can be fatal. Lung cancer and mesothelioma are two of the most frequent. Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the chest's lining and abdominal cavities. Malignant mesothelioma is usually the result of long-term exposure to asbestos. Some people are more at risk of developing malignant mesothelioma more than others, however, even those who have had a minimal exposure to asbestos may still be affected.

If asbestos-containing substances are handled improperly, they can release microscopic fibres into the air. These fibers are so tiny that they can be suspended in air and adhere to clothing, making it easier to inhale or swallow. These tiny, invisible fibers can be transported deep into the lungs, where they can be present for a long time. They can also trigger cancer and fibrotic lungs diseases.

The most common method by which people are exposed to asbestos is through occupational exposure. Mine workers factories, construction sites and shipyards are at greatest risk of being exposed. People who work in older homes or schools as well as military personnel, may also be exposed to asbestos. Some people are exposed to asbestos by exposure to it from secondhand sources for example, from employees who handle it or through home renovations that contain old pipes and insulation.

Asbestos is naturally occurring. It is found in huge natural deposits, or as a source of contamination in other minerals. For instance, tremolite as (known as blue asbestos) can be found in the chrysotile and vermiculite. It has been used to make home and building materials like cement, shingles, flooring and roofing. It is also used in the manufacturing of automobile clutches and brakes.

Your doctor will keep track of your condition to determine if it worsens. Your doctor will use breathing tests, chest X-rays, or CT scans to determine the severity of your condition and how well you are functioning. You could be prescribed an aerosol medicine to thin the fluid in your lungs, oxygen through masks, or a respirator.

Prevention

Do not disturb asbestos-containing materials (ACM). If ACM is left in its natural state, it will perform as it should and not pose a health risk. If it is disturbed during demolition or renovation microfibers may become airborne.  Yuma asbestos lawsuits  could then be inhaled or eaten. Once the fibers get into the body they can damage the lungs and other organs, resulting in mesothelioma and a progressive lung disease called asbestosis. Mesothelioma, asbestosis and other lung diseases aren't caused by a single exposure. They can develop following repeated exposures, even at low levels, over many years.

People who are ill due to asbestos are usually exposed to it regularly typically in a job which required direct contact with asbestos or substantial environmental exposure. The heaviest exposures are generally found in ship repair jobs which involve demolition, re-modeling, or renovation of old ships and buildings. Other dangers include living with someone who works with asbestos, or working in asbestos mines or factories.

Asbestos is made up of a range of minerals that are naturally occurring. It was used extensively for its fire retardant, corrosion resistant and insulating properties in a variety of industrial and building materials. When these asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, the microscopic fibers can become airborne and be inhaled or ingested. When asbestos fibers are inhaled they can travel throughout the lungs as well as other parts of the body which can cause scarring, which eventually can lead to cancer.

The signs of exposure to asbestos usually do not manifest themselves until 15-30 years after the initial exposure. Therefore, asbestos is regarded as a risk for the long-term.

Asbestos is a dangerous material that is still present in a variety of old structures, schools and military housing. Because of this it is essential that asbestos-containing materials are not handled, sampled or removed by anyone other than an accredited professional. It is essential that asbestos-containing materials that are being maintained be kept in a sealed and controlled environment to limit the chance of the fibers becoming airborne.