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The scar tissue makes it hard for the lungs to expand and fill up with oxygen. This can lead to breath shortness, as well as other symptoms such a coughing and crackling noises inside the chest.
Symptoms
Asbestosis typically begins in the chest. This is due to the fact that scar tissue is formed in large areas of the lung, which stiffens the lung and makes it difficult for them to expand. The stiffness eventually can cause severe breath shortness. Other symptoms include chest pain, constant coughing, weight loss and clubbing of the fingers. A person suffering from severe asbestosis may also develop cor pulmonale which is a type of heart failure.
Doctors determine whether asbestosis is present by studying the medical history of a patient and conducting several tests. They will inquire with the patient about any asbestos exposure, and examine their breathing with an stethoscope. If the doctor notices crackling sounds coming from the lungs it could be a sign of asbestosis. The doctors will also order an X-ray of the chest and an CT scan to help them determine the severity of the problem. The X-rays will show the lungs as well as any other abnormalities. The CT scan will reveal the lung's thickness and any scarring.
A lung biopsy is not often needed to diagnose asbestosis. A biopsy is often performed to detect other diseases that are common in workers who have been exposed to asbestos for a prolonged period for example, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
There is no cure for asbestosis however a treatment program can slow the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms. Patients are advised to stay away from smoking cigarettes and to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. They should also receive regular vaccines against pneumococcal and influenza to reduce their chances of contracting an infection. Doctors can also prescribe medications to reduce secretions and open up the airways, like Gauifenesin. They might also suggest oxygen supplements that are delivered via tanks that are thin tubes with prongs that can be inserted into the mouth or nose. Exercise and behavioral changes in the pulmonary rehabilitation program can enhance the quality of life for those suffering from chronic lung diseases.
In certain situations the need for a lung transplant is required to relieve the severe shortness of breath caused by asbestosis that is severe. However, the complicated and lengthy lung transplant procedure is not suitable for many asbestosis patients.
Diagnosis
When asbestos fibers are inhaled they are absorbed into the lungs. This results in scarring and stiffening the lung, making it difficult to breathe. In time, this can lead to a progressive loss of lung function, and may lead to respiratory failure. People who have worked in fields such as shipbuilding, construction, or mining may be at risk.
Doctors determine the severity of the condition by examining the patient's medical records and conducting diagnostic tests. In a physical exam doctors observe the patient's breathing using a stethoscope. They may hear crackling sounds, which are known as inspiratory basilar crackles. These crackles result from the scarring and stiffening lungs tissue. In certain cases, X-rays are able to confirm a diagnosis. On X-rays advanced cases of asbestosis look like honeycombs, or white, early stages are less visible.
Other tests include the pulmonary function test which determines how well the lungs function, as well as the spirometer, which measures the amount of air an individual can exhale and breathe. Doctors can also conduct the CT scan that can provide more detailed images of the lungs as well as surrounding structures than a traditional X-ray. Atlanta asbestos attorneys can reveal early stages of the disease before they show on a chest radiograph.
If you are experiencing symptoms of asbestosis, it's important to consult your doctor as soon as you can. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
It takes a long period of time for asbestosis to develop however, it is possible for patients to delay the symptoms by maintaining an active lifestyle and avoiding exposure to asbestos. A balanced diet and enough sleep can aid in regulating the level of energy. Patients can also reduce their risk of complications by getting the influenza and pneumonia vaccines, and washing their hands frequently.
Smoking is also essential for those with asbestosis, because secondhand smoke can make disease more severe. Avoiding stress, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can help reduce symptoms.
Treatment
Asbestosis isn't curable, however, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve breathing. The shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain are just a few symptoms. These symptoms are due to the scarring in the lungs caused by asbestos fibers embedded in. These scars impede the natural lung functions. Oxygen therapy is a method to relieve symptoms. Other non-invasive procedures, such as thoracentesis, which helps to drain excess fluid around the lungs. Other treatment options include pulmonary rehabilitation, which aids patients regain control over their daily activities. These programs are available in a hospital, clinic or at home. Patients can also receive treatment that is supportive including massage and acupuncture.
During a physical exam, doctors may use a stethoscope to listen to the lungs and search for signs of scarring on the lungs. They can also hear crackling sounds, which can be a sign of asbestosis in the lungs. A doctor can also check for clubbing of fingers, the sign of an asbestos-related condition known as pneumoconiosis.
If a patient's doctor suspects that they have asbestosis, they may request an CT scan or X-ray to examine the lungs in depth. A biopsy is a procedure to check for asbestos fibers within a lung sample tissues. They may also test blood to assess the health of the lungs and the amount of oxygen transported from the lungs into the cells.
Doctors can test for other ailments such as mesothelioma or lung cancer. They can detect these diseases by performing an pleural biopsy. This involves inserting a needle in the pleura in order to take small amounts of the lung's lining to be tested further.
Smoking is a major cause of lung disease. People suffering from chronic pulmonary disease can prevent further complications by not smoking and following the doctor's orders regarding pulmonary rehabilitation and treatment with supportive. It is also recommended to receive the pneumonia, flu, and other vaccines. They should also consult their doctors about undergoing an organ transplant when the disease is in advanced. This is a last-resort for patients, but it can provide relief from serious symptoms and prolong life.
Recovery
Asbestosis can be a long-term disease that isn't curable. However there are ways to reduce the symptoms. The most important thing to do is avoid further exposure to asbestos. This means avoiding buildings and construction sites which aren't tested. Also, it is important to avoid altering materials found in older homes. Also, it is essential to be wearing the proper personal protective equipment when working on construction and renovation projects. Patients can also minimize symptoms by eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids to ensure that they're getting enough nutrients. Staying hydrated also helps patients maintain their energy levels and lung function. Exercise regularly and take breaks during work to reduce fatigue. This can help improve their breathing. In addition, patients should stop smoking and take steps to prevent respiratory infections by getting pneumonia and flu vaccines and regularly washing their hands.
This condition is caused by scar tissue forms on the lungs. This makes it difficult for them to expand, and fill with air. The disease is characterized by a dry cough, a shortness of breath and crackling noises. In more severe cases, the stiffening of the lungs can decrease the blood's oxygen supply, causing symptoms such as fatigue and weight loss.
Doctors will conduct an examination of you and ask questions about your medical background. This includes any asbestos exposure. They'll also listen to your lungs. Pulmonary function tests can measure the quality of your lungs working and can detect the early stages of disease. Imaging scans such as X rays or CT scans can identify changes to the lungs caused by asbestos exposure and help doctors determine what stage the disease is at.
Asbestosis is different from emphysema that is caused by damage to lung's walls as well as the air sacs. The signs and symptoms of the disease differ from those of emphysema. Other conditions that affect the interstitium of the lungs include Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Rheumatoid arthritis, hypersensitive pneumonitis, pleuropulmonary fibroelastosis, and drug-induced fibrosis. The symptoms of each of these conditions may be similar to symptoms associated with asbestosis, which is why it's essential for healthcare professionals to distinguish them.