Asbestos Lung
Asbestos lung is a medical diagnosis of lung conditions caused by the inhalation of microscopic asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with a fibrous form. The fibers have excellent insulation and heat resistant properties, so they have been used in many industrial processes and in the manufacture of products such as cement and insulation materials. Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause a range of serious lung conditions, including asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
At high concentrations, long-term exposure to asbestos fibers has been linked with an increased risk of developing an asbestos-related lung cancer (ARLC). This type of cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos and is most often diagnosed at later stages in life. In addition, those individuals who have already been exposed to asbestos are at a much higher risk of developing ARLC, particularly those who have been exposed to asbestos for a long period of time.
Asbestos exposure can also cause asbestosis, a lung disease which is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease in which scarring and irritation of the lungs occur over time. It can lead to scarring of the lung tissue and a decrease in the ability of the person to breathe. Symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, chest pain and wheezing.
Mesothelioma is another serious lung condition caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers. This cancer begins in the mesothelial cells, which are found in the lining of the lungs and the abdomen. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain or discomfort, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and shortness of breath.
All forms of asbestos-related lung disease have similar symptoms, but they can vary depending on the type of lung condition. It is important to seek medical help if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms as they could be indicative of an asbestos-related illness. Diagnosis of ARLC, asbestosis and mesothelioma typically includes a physical examination, chest x-ray, breathing tests, tissue sample analysis and other tests.
Treatment for an asbestos-related lung condition typically begins with medical care to help relieve symptoms, followed by surgery to remove the damaged areas of the lungs. In some cases, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of both is used to treat the disease. All of these treatment plans need to be overseen by a doctor because of the potential risks and side-effects associated with them.
When it comes to diagnosing ARLC, asbestosis and mesothelioma, early detection is key. The earlier a diagnosis is made, the higher the chance is for successful treatment. Therefore, it is important for anyone who has been exposed to asbestos in the past to seek medical advice as soon as possible. If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms, make an appointment with a doctor immediately.
The best way to prevent asbestos-related lung conditions is avoiding exposure to asbestos whenever possible. This includes avoiding the use of insulation materials that contain the mineral, as well as wearing protective gear when dealing with asbestos- containing products. Additionally, those who have been exposed to asbestos in the past should get regular check-ups to ensure that any conditions are discovered and treated quickly.
