Guide To Treating And Preventing Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic disease where an individual's lungs become damaged and scarred, usually as a result of asbestos exposure. This disease often occurs in individuals who work in a range of occupations involving the handling of asbestos-containing materials in industrial facilities, construction sites, and ships. Typically, it takes several years of regular exposure to asbestos to result in the development of asbestosis or other asbestos-related illness. The repeated inflammation caused by inhalation of asbestos causes scar tissue to develop throughout the microscopic air sacs in the lungs. The air sacs to lose their ability to expand and fill up when the affected individual inhales fresh air as a result of scarring. Common symptoms of asbestosis include persistent dry cough, fatigue, crackling noises when breathing, breathlessness, chest pain, weight loss, chest tightness, and appetite loss. Asbestosis is an irreversible but preventable chronic disease. Aside from lung transplantation, asbestosis treatment options are palliative in nature.

Wearing Safety Masks And Appropriate Equipment

The risk of developing asbestosis can be reduced considerably, or it can be prevented altogether by wearing safety masks and appropriate equipment when working with or around asbestos-containing materials. While lawmakers have enacted several policies to eliminate the use of asbestos in manufacturing, not all occupations can entirely eliminate exposure to it because of its extensive presence in old buildings and structures. Such individuals should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) that can protect them from asbestos. Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) should be utilized at all times when an individual enters any environment with the presence or suspected presence of asbestos. RPE ensures any asbestos particles will not be inhaled through an individual's mouth and nose. Another form of PPE individuals should wear around this substance is specially made disposable overalls to keep them from carrying fibers of asbestos from their worksite. Non-laced protective footwear and disposable boot covers should also be utilized to prevent the migration of asbestos fibers. When an individual is unable to avoid contact with the substance entirely, the use of PPE is the best way to prevent asbestosis and other asbestos-related illnesses.

Review more ways to treat and prevent asbestosis now.