Asbestosis is caused by heavy, long-term exposure to asbestos. This can come from living in a home that never had asbestos removed, or from an occupation such as mining. Asbestosis is not a curable disease, but it is treatable. Following a specific set of rules (which may need to accompany a lifestyle change) and keeping in contact with your doctor will ensure that you live as long and comfortably as possible with asbestosis.
Discontinue any contact you have with asbestos immediately. Asbestos fibers cause damage as it accumulates, so the longer you are exposed to the fibers, the worse off you will be. Quit any job that involves asbestos and have any asbestos in your home removed immediately.
2
Stop smoking if you are a smoker. This is obviously easier said than done, so visit the government's quit smoking website (see Resources). This site will give you tips, resources, and even expert consultation on how to best quit smoking. This is not an option if you want to stay healthy. Smoking significantly increases the threat of lung cancer when you have asbestosis.
3
Avoid large crowds. If you have asbestosis, then you are more likely to contract respiratory infections than others are. Large crowds could expose you to these infections. Respiratory infections will only complicate treatment, so try your best to stay in areas where there aren't a lot of people.
4
Make sure to get a flu shot every year. Pneumonia shots should also be gotten periodically. Your physician can give you a good idea of how often to get a pneumonia shot. These shots are absolutely necessary, as these diseases can be devastating if you have asbestosis. You are also more likely to get these diseases when you have asbestosis.
5
Use your mist humidifier while at home to loosen bronchial secretions. This will make the secretions easier to expel by coughing.
6
Make sure to visit your physician regularly. This is the most important step. Asbestosis patients are prone to asbestos lung cancer, mesothelioma and many different types of malignancies. Only your doctor can monitor these diseases. Your doctor will also be able to give you antibiotics to treat any respiratory infections you may contract. You can also receive prescriptions to help other problems that come along with asbestosis. You should also ask your doctor what types of pain pills you can take for any chest pain.
Tips & Warnings
Visit your doctor as soon as you believe you may have lung problems related to asbestos.
Smoking or engaging in any other activities that may harm your lungs significantly decreases your chance of survival.
Unbelievably, some doctors diagnose gallbladder disease in a rather sexist way, according to nationally syndicated radio program personality and medical director of...
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV is transmitted from one person to another through...
