Diagnosis for Asbestosis is made using tests such as:
1. Chest X-rays or CAT scans depending on the level of detailed accuracy the doctor requires. The scarred tissues will be visible in these images.
2. In addition, Pulmonary (or Lung) Function Tests are prescribed to measure how much air your lungs can hold and the airflow in and out of your lungs.
It is important that the patient provides details of work environment and activities to his/her doctor at the time of them making a diagnosis
Treatment of Asbestosis usually focuses on relieving symptoms and avoiding exposure to asbestos areas. Apart from this, it is recommended to abstain from smoking in the duration of taking symptomatic therapy. Often,
1. Oxygen therapy is prescribed to counteract breathlessness.
2. Physiotherapy including chest percussions, massage and vibration to drain pleural fluid is advised.
3. Nebulization with prescribed medication is also undertaken.
4. Corticosteroids or other such immunosuppressors may be used under doctor’s consultation to relieve other symptoms of asbestosis.
5. To counteract immunosuppressants that may cause reduced immunity leading to frequent colds and flus, pneumonia and flu vaccines are administered.
6. Medications that relax blood vessel walls are given.
7. In rare cases, a lung transplant is done.
Complications may arise depending on the level and duration of exposure to asbestos fiber inhalation.
1. Generally, thinning of blood vessels occurs over a period of time due to fibrosis at various points of the ling and a resulting inner swelling of arteries. This leads to high blood pressure.
2. This pulmonary hypertension can lead to heart failure.
3. Cancer of the lungs is more prevalent in those asbestosis patients who smoke since a combination of tobacco and other toxic ingredients of a cigarette along with the asbestos deposit start the growth of carcinoma cells.
4. Pleural thickening, formation of calcium deposits in the pleura and abnormal accumulation of fluid between the membranes may occur.
5. Lastly, risk of malignant mesothelioma always exists especially in those who have been exposed to asbestos fiber or dust inhalation for a very long period of time (say, since childhood).
Prevention includes:
• Staying away from areas that have demolishing of asbestos works going.
• It includes moving out of homes that have asbestos material used in their roofing etc.
• Using a forced-draught ventilation system in homes with asbestosis patients
• Usage of masks to avoid possible inhalation if your living area sports disturbed or damaged asbestos works.
• Abstaining from smoking.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co.) and the upcoming Rev Up Your Life! (Publisher: Hay House India). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com and http://www.footstrike.wordpress.com