Asbestos exposure is one of the major problems in the mining industry. Workers are at risk of developing various diseases because of asbestos. Many people die from asbestos-related diseases every year.
Various symptoms of asbestos exposure are common, including coughing, shortness of breath, and weight loss. Some other conditions can occur, like pleural plaques, which are fibrous thickenings in the lining of the lungs. These pleural plaques can cause breathing difficulty and are a possible early warning sign of mesothelioma.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos, you should visit your doctor. A health care provider will perform a physical examination and a chest x-ray. The doctor may also prescribe oxygen to help you breathe. However, the diagnosis and treatment of asbestos-related diseases are often complicated. You might be referred to a specialist who treats such conditions.
Even people who are not exposed to asbestos can be at risk. For example, family members of workers who worked with asbestos might be at risk of contracting mesothelioma. There are four different types of cancer that can be caused by asbestos fibers.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. This disease is a result of prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Symptoms of mesothelioma include pain in the chest, coughing, constipation, and fatigue. It can take 20-40 years for mesothelioma to develop.
Pleural plaques are another condition that is linked to asbestos exposure. This condition causes inflammation of the lining of the lungs. With repeated exposure to asbestos, the pleura can become thicker and swell. Eventually, the lining can be so thick that it can squeeze the lungs, making breathing difficult.
Other pulmonary conditions caused by asbestos include pleural effusions, which is when fluid is buildup between the pleura and the lungs. Symptoms of pleural effusions include breathing difficulties and shortness of breath.
In addition to these pulmonary diseases, asbestos is also known to cause laryngeal cancer. Lung cancer is the most common of the asbestos-related diseases, and the risk of lung cancer increases when there is increased exposure to asbestos.
Several occupational industries have been affected by asbestos. During the World War II, the asbestos industry made enormous profits selling insulation to shipbuilders. During the postwar building boom, companies continued to expand their business by adding new products and using asbestos in construction materials.
After the 9/11 attacks, a large number of workers experienced respiratory problems. Researchers are studying the long-term health effects of these workers’ exposure.
People who think that they have been exposed to asbestos should register for the National Asbestos Exposure Registry. Visit this website to register.
Although asbestos is no longer used in most products in the United States, there are still certain types of products that contain asbestos. Products that contain this material must be labeled so consumers know what is in them. Whenever you buy a product that contains asbestos, be sure to check the labels for any mention of asbestos.