Asbestosis Symptoms

Asbestosis is also known as diffuse pulmonary fibrosis. It has been linked to asbestos exposure. In 1977, the U.S. Product Safety Commission proposed its first ban on asbestos-related materials in order to protect the general public from the suspected health risks. Asbestosis symptoms can range from mild to severe and in the worst case scenarios, asbestosis can be fatal.

Time Frame

The symptoms of asbestosis do not appear suddenly; it could be years before symptoms begin to manifest. EPA.gov reports that asbestosis symptoms may begin to appear within 20 to 30 years from the time of exposure.

Misconceptions

Contrary to popular belief, asbestosis is not cancer. Asbestosis has the potential to progress into other forms of cancer, but the diagnosis of asbestosis in and of itself is not cancer related.

Early Warning Signs

Asbestosis has several recognizable warning symptoms. Shortness of breath, dry cough, curved nails, swollen fingers and lung scarring may develop.

Late Stage Symptoms

Asbestosis that remains untreated can create further symptoms. Chronic respiratory infections, wheezing, hoarseness, heart failure, lung collapse, and inflammation (pleurisy) can occur.

Complications

Lung scarring has the possibility of forming both benign or malignant tumors. According to asbestosnetwork.com, these tumors can infiltrate the lymph nodes and also metastasize to other areas of the body.

Treatments

Asbestosis patients are closely monitored in order to quickly treat infections, which may complicate their condition. There is no cure for asbestosis, but steroids and oxygen supplementation may make asbestosis patients more comfortable.

Considerations

Smokers that are diagnosed with asbestosis are urged to quit. Smoking weakens the lungs, making it difficult for the lungs to expel any asbestos fibers that are present. It also intensifies asbestosis symptoms.

Resources

• MayoClinic
• Asbestosis