01. What Is Asbestosis?
Understanding Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a type of lung scarring caused by asbestos. It develops after a person inhales asbestos fibers that irritate lung tissue. Over time, this irritation can cause scarring, shortness of breath and other issues.
In general, asbestosis affects people who spent years working in asbestos occupations. The risk of lung damage and scarring increases with more intense, long-term asbestos exposure. Common symptoms include shortness of breath and coughing. There is no cure for asbestosis, but doctors can provide supportive care.
Causes and Risk Factors for Asbestosis
Asbestosis is caused by exposure to asbestos. But some factors may increase a person’s risk of developing asbestosis, including:
- Longer duration of asbestos exposure
- More intense asbestos exposure
- Smoking
Experts say avoiding asbestos exposure is the best way to reduce your risk of asbestosis. Current asbestos regulations prevent many workplace exposures. But workers in high-risk jobs like construction or shipbuilding may still encounter asbestos.
Even with a career change, they could still develop asbestosis or mesothelioma years later. Anyone who suspects they were exposed to asbestos in the past should discuss it with a physician. The doctor can help monitor for signs of asbestos-related diseases, including asbestosis.
02. Prognosis With Asbestosis
Asbestosis Survival and Prognosis
Prognosis for patients with asbestosis varies quite a bit. Patients with severe cases may live 2 years or less. Mild cases are often non-fatal. Some people have a stable form of asbestosis that worsens slowly or not at all. In such cases, asbestosis may not substantially affect a person’s life expectancy.
In other cases, the scarring worsens over time and can cause life-threatening heart failure. This progressive type of asbestosis may shorten a person’s lifespan. However, data suggests progressive asbestosis cases are rare compared to milder cases.
03. Signs of Asbestosis
Asbestosis Symptoms and Signs
Asbestosis patients have reported the following symptoms:
- Chest pain and tightness
- A crackling sound when they inhale
- Decrease in appetite
- Fatigue
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Widening and rounding of fingertips and toes (clubbing)
In some cases, asbestosis may cause a type of high blood pressure in the lung. This is known as pulmonary hypertension. If this problem persists, it can damage the heart. Over time, pulmonary hypertension may also lead to heart failure.
Since asbestosis affects the lungs, it can cause symptoms similar to those of a respiratory illness. Patients should share any history of asbestos exposure with their doctors. This information can help them determine if vague respiratory symptoms may be caused by an asbestos illness.
Some asbestosis patients may also have other asbestos-related conditions, including:
04. Diagnosing Asbestosis
Asbestosis Testing and Diagnosis
Asbestosis can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are vague. If a physician suspects asbestosis, they may do any of the following to help diagnose it:
- Review the patient’s health history
- Perform a physical exam to listen for crackling sounds
- Order one or more imaging scans (chest X-ray or CT scan)
- Test the patient’s lung function
- Order a bronchoscopy or thoracentesis
Patients should make sure to share any past asbestos exposures with their doctors. This information can help physicians order the right tests. Patients who suspect they have an asbestos illness can also seek an opinion from a specialist. Cancer centers across the country have doctors with extensive experience treating asbestos cancers and illnesses.
05. Treatment for Asbestosis
Asbestosis Treatment Options
Many cases of asbestosis are so mild that patients are unaware they have the condition. In these cases, no treatment is necessary. When asbestosis negatively impacts a patient’s daily life, treatment aims to manage symptoms and slow progression. Doctors may recommend any of the following in such cases:
- Breathing exercises: Pulmonary rehabilitation teaches breathing exercises designed to manage chronic lung conditions.
- Lung transplant: In extreme cases, doctors may suggest a lung transplant.
- Oxygen: Supplemental oxygen may help you feel less out of breath.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking can worsen asbestosis symptoms. Doctors may recommend programs or other assistance to help you quit.
Researchers have not yet found a cure for asbestosis. But the treatments above can help reduce symptoms and slow disease advancement.
Experts say asbestosis patients may get sick more often than the average person. They recommend trying to reduce infection risks with frequent handwashing and keeping vaccinations up to date. Patients may also want to steer clear of airborne irritants like pollen, smoke and chemical vapors.
06. Common Questions
Common Questions About Asbestosis
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What are the first signs of asbestosis?
- Early signs of asbestosis include gradually increasing breathing difficulty and coughing. Some patients may also hear a crackling sound when they breathe in. If you have these symptoms and a history of asbestos exposure, you should see a doctor. Though these symptoms are often tied to other conditions, a physician can determine their true cause.
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Does asbestosis increase my risk of other illnesses?
- Research indicates asbestosis patients have an increased risk of lung cancer. Smoking may elevate this risk even further. Experts recommend asbestosis patients quit smoking. Doctors can help patients find resources and support to make this process easier.
