Signs of Asbestos Poisoning
Asbestos poisoning is known as asbestosis, a disorder that causes breathing disorder. Asbestosis is caused by prolonged exposure to the substance asbestos. When the fibers are inhaled, they accumulate in the lungs and cause damage to the lung tissue. Asbestosis symptoms can last for years. Asbestos was a common ingredient in vinyl flooring as well as insulation until it was regulated by the government in 1975. Today, alternatives to asbestos are used in these products. For this reason, acquiring a new case of asbestosis is unlikely. The disease is treated symptomatically, and usually heals over a long period of time.
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Shortness of Breath
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Shortness of breath is the primary symptom of asbestosis. At first, the shortness of breath will only occur on exertion. As the disease progresses, the sufferer may experience shortness of breath even while at rest. Other disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder can also cause shortness of breath. These disorders must be ruled out.
Tollerence for Physical Activity
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Asbestosis will cause the sufferer to experience a decreased tolerance for physical activity. This decrease in tolerance will become increasingly worse over time. The problematic activities may have once been a normal part of life.
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Coughing
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Asbestosis-related coughing develops slowly, and does not go away. The cough will generally be dry (non-productive) and resemble a smokers' cough. Over-the-counter medication might provide temporary relief, but in asbestosis-related cough this symptom will return.
Chest Pain
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Any person experiencing chest pain should seek immediate medical attention. However, in the case of asbestosis, chest pain will last for months after heart attack has been ruled out.
Finger Deformity
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Changes in the shape of the fingers is perhaps the strangest symptom of asbestos poisoning. The most common change in finger shape is that the fingers will become clubbed. This involves the flattening and rounding of the finger tips. This symptom is progressive and may evolve over months or years.
Onset of Symptoms
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Asbestosis may not show any signs or symptoms for up to 30 years. If you experience any combination of the above symptoms, and have been exposed to asbestos, you should discuss the possibility of asbestos poisoning with your doctor.
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