Asbestos is a mineral that was once commonly used in the construction of buildings. However, it has been found to be very dangerous to human health and can cause a number of serious illnesses and diseases. If, at any point in time, you were exposed to asbestos, it is crucial that you book a consultation with the doctor as soon as possible, as the health effects can be very serious.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer is a very serious illness that occurs when the cells in the lungs begin to grow uncontrollably. Usually, this happens because the cells are exposed to a substance that is harmful, such as asbestos. Asbestos fibers can enter the lungs and cause the cells to become damaged, which can lead to cancer. It can take many years for asbestos exposure to cause lung cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer increases with the amount of time that you are exposed to asbestos.
When this exposure eventually leads to lung cancer, the symptoms may not appear until years later. The most common symptom of lung cancer is a cough that does not go away. Another symptom is shortness of breath. Other symptoms include chest pain, hoarseness, and weight loss. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible so that cancer can be diagnosed and treated. Is it possible to heal from lung cancer?
The survival rate for lung cancer is, unfortunately, very low. However, it is important to remember that this number is average, and some people do survive for much longer. Your chances of survival will increase significantly with early diagnosis and treatment.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura, as well as the lining of the abdomen, known as the peritoneum. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. If you inhale the asbestos fibers, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs or abdomen. Over time, these fibers can cause the cells in the lining to become damaged and grow out of control, eventually leading to cancer.
It might be years before the symptoms of mesothelioma develop. The most common symptom is shortness of breath. Other symptoms include chest pain, coughing and fatigue. In case you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit a doctor as soon as possible so that cancer can be diagnosed and treated.
When you receive a prompt diagnosis and treatment, the survival rate for mesothelioma is much higher. However, this cancer is still very difficult to treat, and the survival rate is generally quite low.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease that is caused by exposure to asbestos. This disease occurs when the asbestos fibers become lodged in the lungs and cause inflammation. If you get this inflammation, your long tissue will get scarred, making it difficult for you to breathe. Asbestosis is a progressive disease, meaning that it gets worse over time. The most common symptom is shortness of breath. Other symptoms include coughing and fatigue.
If you have asbestosis, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible so that the disease can get diagnosed and treated. There is no cure for asbestosis, but there are treatments that can help to improve your quality of life. The earlier you receive treatment, the better.
Pleural effusion
Pleural effusion is a condition that occurs when fluid builds up in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid can make it difficult to breathe. Many asbestos job sites that put workers at risk for developing pleural effusion often fail to have proper ventilation. This meant that workers constantly inhaled asbestos fibers, which eventually led to the development of the condition.
Shortness of breath is among the most common symptoms of pleural effusion. Other symptoms include coughing and chest pain. One of the most common treatment options for pleural effusion is surgery. This involves removing the fluid from the chest cavity.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to the best possible outcome, which is why it is so important to be aware of the symptoms.
