Asbestosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

27 Jan 2017

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition that is caused by inhaling asbestos fibres. Over time, breathing in asbestos fibres can cause scarring of lung tissue and shortness of breath. Asbestosis doesn’t show up until many years after exposure has begun. Unfortunately, by the time the symptoms appear, there has already been permanent damage to the lungs.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath, a persistent unproductive cough, loss of appetite and weight loss, chest tightness or pain, and fingertips and toes that are larger than normal (also known as clubbing) are common signs of asbestosis.

Causes

When you are exposed to asbestos fibres over a long period of time, they can become lodged in the tiny sacs inside your lungs where oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide in your blood, also known as alveoli. The fibres begin to irritate and scar the lung tissue. Over time, this causes the lungs to become stiff, and causes it to become difficult to breathe.

Risk Factors

Working in milling, mining, manufacturing, and installation or removal of asbestos products prior to the 1980’s puts you at risk for asbestosis. Other people who are at risk include:

• Asbestos Miners

• Mechanics

• Boiler Operators

• Construction Workers

• Electricians

• Railroad and Shipyard Workers

Prevention

You can prevent asbestosis by avoiding exposure to asbestos. If you suspect that asbestos is in your home or workplace, you should have a professional asbestos survey done. If asbestos is found, they can counsel you on whether it needs to be removed.

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