Asbestosis: Complications and Treatment
Effects of Asbestosis on Lung Function
Asbestosis causes damage by the scarring of lung tissue and causing inflammation. Inhaled asbestos fibers reach the air sacs (alveoli) where oxygen is transferred into the blood. The lung’s immune system attempts to remove the foreign asbestos fibers with scavenger white blood cells (macrophages). In attempting to break down the asbestos fibers, the macrophages are ruptured and killed, attracting additional macrophages to the site. The result is the formation of scar tissue in the lungs, reducing the lung’s ability to deliver oxygen to the blood and remove carbon dioxide.
Have you or someone you know been diagnosed with asbestosis?
Our asbestos attorneys at Brayton Purcell are currently evaluating asbestosis cases with either occupational or secondary exposure to asbestos. If you would like to learn about your legal options, please fill out this short form and we will contact you to discuss your case.
Asbestos Pleural Plaques and Pleural Thickening
Asbestos pleural disease results in scarring similar to asbestosis; however, asbestos pleural disease occurs in the thin lining of the lungs and chest (pleura) rather than within the lungs. Pleural plaques are localized and well defined areas of pleural thickening. The ‘thickening’ is the body’s response to the presence of asbestos fibers. If the plaques harden, they are referred to as ‘calcified pleural plaques.’ Scarring that extends along the chest wall is called diffuse pleural thickening, a more constrictive and serious condition than pleural plaques.
Asbestosis Diagnosis and Treatment
Asbestosis and asbestos pleural diseases progress slowly. Early symptoms may include shortness of breath and chest pain. Physicians may use x–rays, CT scans, breathing or pulmonary function tests to diagnose whether asbestosis or asbestos pleural disease is present. Individuals diagnosed with asbestosis and asbestos pleural plaques are also at risk for developing asbestos lung cancer and mesothelioma, a fatal form of asbestos cancer.
For further information on asbestosis diagnosis or asbestosis treatments, please visit Asbestos Network.
Asbestosis Lawsuits
Asbestosis is caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos exposure typically occurs in the construction, trade and automotive repair environments. If you have developed an asbestos related disease, an asbestosis attorney may be able to assist you in recovering compensation for your injuries. Please contact us for an evaluation of your potential asbestosis case.