Asbestosis
What is it?
Asbestosis is a lung disease that develops when asbestos fibers cause inflammation and scarring in your lungs. The scarring restricts your breathing and interferes with the ability of oxygen to enter your bloodstream.
Many cases originate from workplace exposure to asbestos. This disease takes years to develop and can be life threatening.
Complications may include respiratory failure, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and pulmonary hypertention that may lead to a heart disease.
Signs & symptoms
The signs and symptoms of asbestosis typically manifest after a significant amount of time has passed following asbestos exposure. These may include:
* shortness of breath
* tightness in the chest
* cough
* finger clubbing (enlarged fingertips)
Diagnosis
diagnostic means may include:
* history of asbestos exposure
* physical examination - your doctor will usually use a stethoscope to listen for abnormal breath sounds. They will also measure your oxygen level in your blood
* imaging studies – chest X-ray, CT.
* pulmonary (lung) function test - to measure the amount of air you can inhale and the airflow to and from your lungs
* lung biopsy
Treatment
Asbestosis can’t be cured. However, there are a few treatments that can help control the disease or reduce symptoms. These include:
* Supplemental oxygen
* inhaled medications
* avoiding further exposure to asbestos and quitting smoking if you do.
* Pneumococcal and influenza vaccination
* Lung transplant in severe cases
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:
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