How does Asbestosis affect the body?

When asbestos fibers enter the lungs, they penetrate the lung tissue causing irritation and inflammation. When the asbestos fibers reach the lung’s air sacs, where oxygen is transferred into the blood, the asbestos fibers cause the body’s immune system to respond which provokes an inflammatory reaction. This inflammatory reaction is a chronic reaction, and causes continual inflammation in an attempt to eliminate the asbestos from the lungs. Unfortunately, there is no way for the body to expel the asbestos fibers, many of which are thinner than a human hair, from the lungs. Once inhaled, they remain there forever.

This inflammation causes scar tissue to build up inside the lungs, which reduces the body’s ability to transfer oxygen to the bloodstream, as well as the removal of carbon dioxide from the body.

Signs and Symptoms of Asbestosis

Because asbestosis causes irritation, inflammation, and scar tissue in the lungs, it affects the transmission of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide, which is essential for the body to function efficiently. The most noticeable symptom of asbestosis is usually the slow onset of shortness of breath from minor exertion. In advanced cases of asbestosis, this can even cause fatal respiratory failure. Coughing may not be a symptom of asbestosis unless the patient has other respiratory tract diseases.

Who is at risk for Asbestosis?

Because asbestosis is caused by long-term, heavy exposure to asbestos, people with extensive occupational exposure to the mining, manufacturing, ship building, and handling or removal of asbestos are at risk of developing asbestosis. Prolonged asbestos exposure also brings an increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma. Most cases of asbestosis do not occur until 5-10 years after asbestos exposure.

Treatment

There is no cure for asbestosis. Many patients who suffer from asbestosis related shortness of breath require oxygen therapy at home, and may even need to take a portable oxygen canister with them when they leave home. Supportive treatment of symptoms includes removal of lung secretions and mucus from the lungs by postural drainage, chest percussion, and vibration. Some medications may be prescribed to thin the secretions for easier removal. However, it is not possible to remove the cause of asbestosis - the asbestos fibers which are in the lungs.

Preventing Asbestosis

The most effective method of preventing asbestos is avoiding the inhalation of asbestos fibers into the lungs. This can be done by avoiding areas contaminated with asbestos fibers, or by wearing approved safety devices such as masks or inhalers.