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Asbestos Related Illness Info

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Asbestos-Related Illness or Allergies?

By Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

For allergy sufferers, this time of year is miserable, but are your allergies really seasonal allergies? Asbestos-related illnesses can mimic allergy symptoms. Below, Asbestos Abatement Services will discuss asbestos-related illnesses and the symptoms. If your symptoms last longer than a week, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. It could be an asbestos-related illness or other severe illness.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a thickening and scarring of the lung tissue. This is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers and dust. Asbestosis symptoms are respiratory and can feel the same as seasonal allergies. Coughing, shortness of breath, and even fatigue can occur. All of these are similar to a case of allergies or sinus infections. Asbestosis does not go away and is a progressive illness. If your symptoms last longer or become more severe, see your doctor.

Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma

Cancer is progressive and aggressive. It will continue to get worse and more symptoms will develop. Common symptoms of these cancers include coughing, wheezing, respiratory problems, and fatigue. As the cancer develops, more severe symptoms will occur.

Pleural Thickening and Plaques

Pleural plaques are thickening of the lining of the chest wall and lungs. This can cause respiratory symptoms. While plaques are not cancerous, they are usually a precursor to mesothelioma.

As you can see, most illnesses caused by asbestos exposure have respiratory symptoms. The best way to determine if you have seasonal allergies or asbestos-related illnesses is by seeing your doctor. If your home has never been tested for asbestos, now is the time. You should also see your doctor if you work in a field that may be exposed to asbestos. It is best to know if you are dealing with seasonal allergies or a more severe illness caused by the exposure of asbestos.

Pulmonologist with stethoscope looking at an X-ray picture of lungs

3 Common Asbestos-Related Illnesses that are Not Cancer

By Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos is most known for causing Mesothelioma. However, asbestos exposure can cause a myriad of health problems that are not cancer. From underlying respiratory issues to asbestosis, there is no shortage of illnesses caused by asbestos exposure. Below, we will discuss three common asbestos-related illnesses and the symptoms each cause.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is not lung cancer, but it can be deadly. Asbestosis is known for causing severe inflammation and scarring of the lungs. This prevents the lungs from relaxing regularly and expanding. Asbestosis caused shortness of breath, tightening of the chest, coughing, and fatigue. It is a very serious medical problem that is a contributing cause of death in many.

Pleural Effusions

Fluid buildup is a common symptom of asbestos exposure. Pleural effusions are caused when fluid builds up between the layers of the pleural membrane, causing fluid to increase in the chest cavity. The fluid can collect between the lungs and ribs, leading to major constriction of the lungs. Pleural effusions are not life-threatening, unless not treated. Pleural effusions can cause severe pain and problems breathing. The fluid will need to be drained to ensure the lungs can function correctly.

Pleural Plaques

Pleural plaques are widespread after asbestos exposure. Pleural plaques are calcified buildups around the pleural membrane. It is not a severe health problem but can lead to pain and trouble breathing. Pleural plaques have been markers in the development of Mesothelioma and lung cancer.

If you have trouble breathing, have a tight chest, and a cough, you should see a professional as soon as possible. This is even more critical if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos at some point in your life. Asbestos exposure causes major illnesses that can become worse over time, without the correct treatment plans. If you think your home has asbestos, contact Asbestos Abatement Services for a complete asbestos test and inspection!

Man holding chest indicating chest pain

Asbestos Exposure Symptoms and Your Health

By Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos exposure is a severe problem in the United States. We see more and more cases of Mesothelioma, cancer, and other asbestos-related illnesses. With such an influx of cases, we all must know and understand the main symptoms of asbestos. Asbestos Abatement Services has the knowledge to ensure you know the dangers and the symptoms to protect yourself better! Below we discuss regular symptoms and more severe illnesses.

Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Illnesses

Asbestos exposure can happen anywhere, including your own home. This is what makes this risk such a concern. You can not see the fibers which break off from this mineral and you will not know if you have been affected immediately. It can take years for symptoms to start. Below are some of the main symptoms of asbestos exposure:

  • Shortness of Breath
  • Chest Pain and Tightness
  • Dry Cough
  • Wheezing
  • Cracking Sound When Breathing
  • Respiratory Problems

Above are the most common symptoms that occur after asbestos exposure. Some may have one or two of these symptoms, while others could have all of them. It is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor to ensure proper treatment.

Severe Symptoms

Asbestos exposure can cause severe symptoms that can be overlooked as other illnesses. These symptoms can be the start of something more serious such as Mesothelioma or lung cancer.

  • Pleural Plaques
  • Pleural Thickening
  • Pleural Effusions
  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Bowel Obstructions
  • Abdominal Pain and Swelling

Asbestos exposure can cause a variety of symptoms that may range from non-serious to life-threatening. If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos or have any of the symptoms listed, do not hesitate to see your doctor. Asbestos-related illnesses are severe and can cause death. If you are feeling ill and the symptoms never go away, it is crucial that you see a doctor.

View of landscape in spring

Asbestos Removal During the Spring – Is it a Good Idea?

By Asbestos Information, Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos removal is completed daily across the country. Even during the dead of winter asbestos removal is occurring. The question remains, is it best to have asbestos removed at a specific time of year? Of course, we all want perfect weather when doing our jobs, but that is not always the case. Asbestos is a serious and life-threatening fiber, meaning we complete asbestos removal year-round. Winter is difficult when trying to remove asbestos from roofing or siding, but indoor asbestos removal is not affected by the weather.

Spring Asbestos Removal

Spring is a beautiful time of year and perfect weather for asbestos removal. If you have asbestos on your property, you should never wait for a specific time of year to have it removed. By waiting, you are increasing the chances that you become exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure is extremely hazardous to your health. Asbestos exposure can cause:

  • Mesothelioma
  • Asbestosis
  • Pleural Thickening
  • Lung Cancer
  • Severe Respiratory Illnesses

As you can see, asbestos exposure can cause life-threatening illnesses, including death. As asbestos abatement removal specialists, we never want you to wait to have asbestos removed from your home or business. The risks of becoming exposed are too high.

If you know your property has asbestos-containing materials, they should be removed as soon as possible. We know that things happen, and money can be an issue, but the asbestos must be removed quickly. Asbestos fibers can quickly spread through your house as materials break down or become damaged. This can cause an entire family to become exposed to asbestos.

Asbestos removal professionals will work closely with the client to ensure their safety in removing the asbestos. During asbestos removal, the home will need to be vacated, as areas will need to be sealed off for the safe removal of the asbestos. Once completed, you will be able to return to your home and know it is asbestos-free!

Workman at rooftop of building being remediated

5 Facts About Asbestos

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos Information, Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos has been on the news, on billboards, in magazines, and all over the internet, but do you really know everything you should about asbestos? Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma and lung cancer and other horrible diseases, but what else is there no to know? Asbestos-related illnesses were caused by working conditions, but is that all you need to know? Did you know you and your family could be at risk? Well, you could be at risk, and the dangers could be inside your home. The one place you should feel safe and protected. Below, we will discuss 5 facts about asbestos that you need to know to protect you and your family!

Asbestos Could Be In Newer Homes

Asbestos is not banned in the United States, meaning it could still be showing up in construction materials. Most asbestos-containing materials are found in homes that were built before the late 80s. However, we are seeing newer homes that have asbestos.

Asbestos-Related Illnesses Do Not Show Up Immediately

Unlike cases of flu and viruses, exposure to asbestos can take decades to show up in the form of illnesses. Most people that have mesothelioma were exposed 20 or more years prior. The same holds true for asbestosis and other asbestos-related illnesses. You must protect yourself from being exposed to asbestos.

It is Illegal to Remove and Dispose of Asbestos

Special licenses and certifications are needed to remove and securely dispose of asbestos. It is a hazardous material that can make a lot of people sick. If your home has asbestos, contact a professional. Don’t risk illnesses or repercussions from the law.

Asbestos Has Been Used For Centuries

Egyptians and others used asbestos for pottery and textiles centuries ago. Asbestos was naturally growing and was found to be heat resistant and durable early on. There are also documented cases of illness from asbestos very early on.

Asbestos Fibers Can Travel

Asbestos fibers are very small and can float through the air and attack to clothing. If you come into contact with asbestos, you can easily bring it into your home or other areas on your clothing, shoes, and even lunchbox. Never remove asbestos-containing materials. It is very dangerous.

Elderly man sitting on a couch coughing

Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure

By Asbestos Information, Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos exposure symptoms can be tricky. While exposure to asbestos eventually causes symptoms, it often doesn’t occur for decades after the exposure. Asbestos exposure symptoms oftentimes mimic that of other respiratory illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose. Many times symptoms do not occur for 20 or more years. While it may be challenging to diagnose, there are ways to determine if you have an asbestos-related illness. If your symptoms last all year, you may have an asbestos-related illness. Below we will discuss the main symptoms of asbestos exposure and the illnesses that accompany those symptoms. If you think you have been exposed to asbestos, see your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is key to treatment.

The most common asbestos-related symptoms mimic those of allergies, sinuses, and colds. Below are the more common symptoms:
• Respiratory Illnesses
• Tightness of Chest
• Lung Disease
• Prolonged Dry Cough
• Itchy or Watery Eyes
• Shortness of Breath
• Weight Loss
• Chest Pain

As you can see, these symptoms are often related to other illnesses. You will need to have a battery of tests and bloodwork completed to determine if it is asbestos-related.

Severe Symptoms and Illnesses of Asbestos Exposure Include the Following:
• Mesothelioma
• Lung Cancer
• Fluid Buildup in the Abdomen, Neck, and Chest Cavity
• Finger Clubbing
• Nail Deformities
• Loss of Appetite
• Asbestosis
• Pleural Thickening

Asbestos exposure is hazardous and can cause cancer and even death. Asbestos fibers are so small that you do not realize you have been exposed. The fibers can easily be ingested or breathed in. If you live in an older home, have it tested for asbestos. If you have any of the above symptoms, see your doctor. It is crucial to find out if you have an asbestos-related illness. Most illnesses are treatable if detected early.

Doctor talking to his female senior patient at the office

Top Illnesses Caused by Asbestos

By Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos has become more popular over the last decade, but it wasn’t until recently that people began to really take notice of the dangers of widely used mineral substance. Scientist has begun to study asbestos-related illnesses, and new regulations and laws are being passed to protect people from asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, many have already been exposed and face severe diseases because of it. Below we will discuss some common illnesses that are caused by different sources of asbestos exposure and some of the symptoms that each cause.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic illness that affects the lungs. It is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. This can cause severe scarring to the lung’s tissues, as well as shortness of breath. Asbestosis takes at least 10 years from the time of exposure to show symptoms.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma affects the stomach, heart, and lungs. It is only cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is a hazardous and rare form of cancer that causes fluid to build around the heart, lungs, and abdomen.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer begins in the lungs and can be caused by asbestos exposure. Lung cancer doesn’t usually show signs until the disease is advanced. Symptoms of lung cancer include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pains. Lung cancer is often aggressive and will metastasize to other areas of the body.

Pleural Effusions

Pleural Effusions are caused by excessive amounts of fluid in the lung cavity. This can cause respiratory distress and chest pains. Pleural effusions often lead to mesothelioma or lung cancer.

As you can see, many of the illnesses caused by asbestos exposure are severe. It often takes between 10 and 40 years after exposure to asbestos to recognize symptoms, making these illnesses even scarier. If you have any of the symptoms listed above or believe you were exposed to asbestos, see a doctor. Early diagnosis is crucial in treatments.

Two Doctors Talking As They Walk Through Modern Hospital

Asbestos Exposure and the Risk of Cancer

By Asbestos Information, Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

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.

Specimen of asbestos

Can Small Amounts of Asbestos Exposure be Safe?

By Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

The short answer is no. Any amount of asbestos exposure can cause extreme damage to your body. Asbestos Abatement Services will break it down and discuss asbestos exposure and the many dangers it causes. Asbestos fibers are not able to be seen; this makes it difficult to know if you have been exposed or not. However, any exposure to asbestos, even trace amounts, can cause respiratory problems and even cancer. Asbestos is highly hazardous to your health.

Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure can happen virtually anywhere, but most exposure happens through jobs and at home. Some occupations are more at risk than others. Construction, railroad, shipyards, and even military jobs are at risk for asbestos exposure. Asbestos will attach to clothing and be carried into homes, exposing everyone in the household. Asbestos exposure also happens frequently during home remodels or in older homes as asbestos-containing materials begin to break down from wear and tear.

What Happens If I become Exposed to Asbestos

Asbestos exposure can lead to serious medical conditions. Even one time of being exposed to asbestos can cause major health issues in the future. Asbestos stays dormant in your body for years and even decades, meaning you will not notice any signs or symptoms of asbestos exposure. Asbestos-related illnesses always start with respiratory problems, as asbestos fibers mainly attack the lungs and heart. Some of the more common illnesses caused by asbestos exposure are:
• Asbestosis
• Pleural Thickening
• Lung Cancer
• Pleural Plaques
• Mesothelioma
• Severe Respiratory Illnesses

If you think you have been exposed to asbestos, it is crucial that you see a doctor. The doctor will run tests and check for any problems that could show if you have been exposed. Medical advances have made it possible to live with asbestos-related illnesses. If you are suffering from a cough, trouble breathing, or other respiratory problems see your doctor as soon as possible.

Doctor writing on a notepad

Asbestos Exposure and the Accompanying Illnesses

By Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Mesothelioma is the number one known illness caused by asbestos exposure. It is the illness that we see all over the media. However, many different illnesses stem from asbestos exposure. Asbestos Abatement Services has a list of illnesses and the symptoms that accompany them. Below we will go over each illness.

Benign Asbestos Pleural Effusions

Pleural Effusions caused by asbestos exposure is caused by fluid buildup in the parietal and visceral pleura. You begin to see symptoms of pleural effusions within a decade of asbestos exposure. If they are left untreated, they can turn into pleural thickening.

Diffuse Pleural Thickening

Diffuse Pleural thickening is somewhat more severe than pleural effusions, as the visceral pleura thickens, it can cause restriction of lung capacity and lung use. The most common symptom is pleural thickening is shortness of breath.

Pleural Plaques

Pleural plaques normally show no symptoms and are one of the more common illnesses of asbestos exposure. They are not cancerous but cause thickening in the lungs. Pleural plaques happen around 30 years after asbestos exposure. Pleural plaques are known to cause severe respiratory problems that can cause more severe illnesses.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by asbestos exposure. Lung tissue will scar and cause symptoms such as shortness of breath. Asbestosis is a very common illness from asbestos exposure.

The above illnesses usually have the same symptoms listed below:
• Swelling
• Coughing
• Respiratory Problems
• Trouble Breathing
• Tightening of Chest

While the above asbestos-related illnesses are not as severe as Mesothelioma or Lung cancer, they can still cause major health problems. If there is a chance you have been exposed to asbestos, see your doctor as soon as possible. If you have any of the above symptoms get checked out, as they can lead to more severe respiratory problems.