Asbestos Symptoms
Asbestos was once commonly used in construction because of its damage-resistant properties. While it is now known to have harmful effects, many people have been exposed to this material. Asbestos symptoms are somewhat varied, but tend to be related to the respiratory system. Fibres and damage can accumulate in the lungs for years with no noticeable signs. Asbestos symptoms can appear long after exposure, which can make it difficult to identify the problem.
Most asbestos symptoms affect the person’s lungs and breathing. The fibres of asbestos can cause scarring in the lungs and lead to the progressive disease known as Asbestosis. Shortness of breath is probably the most common symptom. The person may often experience difficulty breathing as well as have a chronic cough. This cough typically produces mucus. Those who suffer from asbestos exposure will sometimes produce a dry or “crackling” sound when inhaling. The patient can experience tightness or pain in the chest.
There are also a few asbestos symptoms that are not directly related to the respiratory system. Weight loss and nausea may occur as well as difficulty swallowing and swelling in the face or neck. Many symptoms are also signs of serious diseases that are caused by asbestos exposure. While asbestos can cause an array of specific problems, it can also contribute to some other chronic or even life-threatening diseases.
Lung Cancer is one possible effect of asbestos. Some of the symptoms are quite similar to those of standard asbestos exposure, but there are a few that can be used to help diagnose this type of cancer. Anaemia, wheezing, unexplained weight loss and consistent chest pain are all signs that the patient may have Lung Cancer.
Asbestos is also known to be a factor in the development of the relatively rare cancer, Mesothelioma. This cancer affects the lining of the lungs and may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and swelling, fever, anaemia and problems with blood clots.
Asbestos is thought to be a contributing factor in many other serious diseases. It is thought to increase one’s chances of several non-respiratory forms of cancer. It may also worsen the symptoms of other diseases, especially those that affect the respiratory system.
These are some of the most common asbestos symptoms, as well as some of the long-term effects of exposure. Asbestos symptoms can often be increased by other factors or illnesses. Smoking is known to significantly aggravate asbestos symptoms. Many people have unknowingly been exposed to this material and should be aware of the signs.