Asbestos is known to cause severe illnesses, including cancer. Unfortunately, exposure symptoms are not immediate. They develop over decades. Asbestos fibers stay dormant in your body for years after exposure. Once active, the asbestos causes respiratory problems and even cancer. Asbestos Abatement Services will discuss how you may be exposed to asbestos and what illnesses may occur.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused exclusively from asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma starts in the lungs and abdomen, and you don’t see symptoms until the cancer has grown and spread. Some of the symptoms of mesothelioma are:
- Pain in the Chest or Abdomen
- Shortness of Breath
- Dry Cough or Wheezing
- Respiratory Problems
- Night Sweats and Fevers
- Fatigue
- Weight Loss and Muscle Weakness
- Pleural Effusions
Mesothelioma is often fatal. However, treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation have been used to shrink tumors. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important that you see your doctor as soon as possible.
What Factors Determine Your Risk of Developing Asbestos-Related Illnesses?
When it comes to asbestos, there are a lot of different factors that can determine the risk of developing cancer or other related illnesses. Below we will discuss these factors.
Amount
The amount of asbestos you were exposed to can determine what illnesses occur. If you were exposed briefly, you might not develop any signs or symptoms.
Duration
If you were exposed over time and for extended periods, you could develop major illnesses such as Mesothelioma or other cancers.
Type of Asbestos
There are different types of asbestos fibers, and each one poses different health risks.
Smoking, Lung Disease, and other Individual Factors
Pre-existing illnesses can help determine the damage asbestos does to your body. Smoking can also help exasperate the problems.
Genetics
Genetics can make you more likely to develop certain illnesses. Certain mutations and genes can set you up for respiratory problems and even cancer.
