In addition to lung cancer and mesothelioma, asbestos exposure can also cause cancer of the larynx and ovary. Current evidence also suggests asbestos exposure may cause cancer of the pharynx, stomach, and colorectum. People concerned about asbestos exposure should visit their doctor or other medical provider.
What is asbestosis and what are its harmful effects?
Asbestosis is a serious, chronic, non-cancerous respiratory disease. Inhaled asbestos fibers aggravate lung tissues, which cause them to scar. Symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath and a dry crackling sound in the lungs while inhaling. In its advanced stages, the disease may cause cardiac failure.
What health problems can you get from asbestos?
Exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of developing:
- Lung cancer.
- Asbestosis, which causes permanent lung damage.
- Mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the chest and stomach lining.
- Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract, kidney and throat (larynx or oropharynx).
- Scarring of the lung lining.
What are the four main diseases associated with asbestos?
Exposure to asbestos can cause respiratory diseases and cancers including: > lung cancer > mesothelioma, (pleural, peritoneal or pericardial) > asbestosis, and > some other cancers.
Can you cure asbestosis?
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for asbestosis and it’s not possible to reverse the damage to your lungs. However, you can take steps to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What are the symptoms of asbestos in your lungs?
What are the symptoms of asbestosis?
- Breathlessness that gets worse over time.
- Crackling sounds when breathing.
- Dry cough.
- Fast, shallow breathing.
- Loss of appetite.
- Swelling or ‘clubbing’ at the end of the fingers.
- Weight loss.
How do you know if you have asbestos in your body?
The most common signs of asbestos exposure include shortness of breath, cough and chest pain. Pleural plaques are a sign that a person had enough exposure to be at risk of other diseases. They may develop prior to mesothelioma or lung cancer.
