| The use of asbestos is less common
today. It was extensively used in the past because we did not know
the diseases it can cause. Today we see more cases affected by
asbestos exposure. The reason for this is that asbestos related
diseases have a long latency period. The asbestos fibers causing
the problem take as long as 20 to 30 years to reveal themselves.
The symptoms then suddenly develop a quantum change once the
latent period is over. The other issue is that many of these
symptoms are common to other diseases as well, making it difficult
to identify the real cause.
Asbestos was a popular material for insulation because it is a
good insulator and fire retardant. No wonder, it has been used in
many buildings, and because it does not cause problems, unless
stirred, it has not been replaced in most buildings. However, the
symptoms of cancer or asbestosis, which is incurable, can be
traced to exposure to this substance decades ago.
People who work around old construction sites that involve
demolition or remodeling are exposed to asbestos, as they inhale
the small fibers. These microscopic fibers, inhaled through the
mouth or nose are breathed into the body and come into contact
with the lining of the lungs.
It takes decades to assess the damage caused by asbestos
fibers. This explains why there has been an increase in the number
of cases of asbestos poisoning. The symptoms are related to lung
disease, which is difficult to diagnose in the early stages.
The symptoms of diseases caused by asbestos fibers include
coughing and increased shortness of breath over time. These
symptoms come with other diseases, and are mistaken for less
deadly illnesses. Since the symptoms do not appear to be too
serious, they are often ignored. If you have prior exposure to
asbestos and experience a persistent cough or shortness of breath,
you should get yourself checked up at once.
Other symptoms like chest pain, hoarseness, and coughing up
blood are also symptoms of asbestos related diseases and far more
dangerous if they last too long. Therefore you must get proper
tests done if you have ever been exposed to asbestos and you
experience these symptoms now.
Seeing a specialist can help you determine whether or not your
problem is asbestos related. If you fear that you have been
exposed through work, then speak with your doctor about your
concerns and see if you can get a referral to a specialist. It is
very important that you catch signs of asbestos early.
The symptoms of asbestos related illness can be treated but
there is no permanent cure. If the illness progresses into lung
cancer, then surgery or chemotherapy may be required. The systems
can also be controlled to a certain degree by leading a healthy
lifestyle. Learn how your lungs work and think of ways to look
after your lungs.
If you live in a developed countries you may
be entitled to work compensation. See your lawyers for further
information. Unfortunately, if you live in underdeveloped or
developing countries, there is usually no remedy. However, not
many people in the underdeveloped world suffer from asbestos
related diseases because underdeveloped countries do not have
asbestos industries in the past.
If you have questions related to this article you may e-mail me
at doctor@soontongkiong.com quoting the contents of the article.
About the author
DR SOON is a medical practitioner. He holds four degrees. MBBS
(University of Malaya), MBA (University of East Asia), LLB (Hons)
(University of Wolverhampton), Master of Medicine (Edith Cowan
University
:
Dr SOON is the owner of AskMyVisitor.com and MyScriptDoctor.com
where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information
on
many medical, health and lifestyle topics. |
