Asbestos exposure compromises the primary health of your lungs when fibers go airborne and you breathe them in. Asbestos is a group of natural mineral fibers once used in everyday materials and building projects like cement, drywall, automobile brake pads, and fire-resistant textiles.
Overexposure to asbestos can permanently impact health and normal respiratory function in humans, which is why asbestos abatement is crucial to construction and renovation projects for older buildings constructed before the early 1980s.
In today’s blog by Environmental Demolition Group, we look into health problems caused by asbestos exposure.
Lung Cancer
When someone inhales asbestos, tiny fibers enter the respiratory system causing lung scarring and inflammation. Asbestos may remain dormant in the body for 10 to 35 years before someone notices any symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic Report, lung cancer causes the highest number of deaths of all cancers. Catching lung cancer at an early stage is critical to stopping or slowing the spread of the disease.
Asbestos Exposure Symptoms
Since the 1970s, the United States has passed regulations minimizing or banning the use of asbestos that threatens an individual’s health. Not only was asbestos used in building materials until the early ‘80s, but things like paint, gas fireplaces, and even vintage clothing may contain asbestos. Everyone has experienced some level of Asbestos exposure on a minor scale from our air, water, and natural environment.
Luckily, this natural exposure is not enough to make us sick. But building materials were the main culprit for asbestos exposure.
Construction workers and firefighters are at high risk for contracting an asbestos-related illness. They require yearly check-ups since asbestos can take years to present itself.
Some common asbestos symptoms include:
- Weight Loss
- Face Swelling
- Loss of Appetite
- Fatigue
- Shortness of Breath
- Inability to Inhale Deeply
- Chest or Abdomen Pains
If you experience any of these symptoms and believe they are related to asbestos, contact your primary care physician right away.
Asbestosis and Mesothelioma
Asbestosis is a condition that causes permanent lung damage. It is a malignant form of cancer and requires a specialized physician to diagnose and treat. Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor that develops directly from inhaled asbestos fibers. It grows in your stomach lining, abdomen, or heart, causing fatigue and chest pains. Treatments for both of these conditions include chemotherapy and other related surgeries.
Speak to your primary physician if you believe you are at risk of contracting an illness from asbestos exposure.
Reduce Asbestos Exposure Risks With Environmental Demolition Group
EDG is the lead service provider for hazardous and non-hazardous waste disposal for select demolition of buildings in need of renovation. We offer services in asbestos abatement, lead abatement, mold remediation, and more.
Please speak to one of our experienced professionals to suit your commercial or industrial needs. We understand the importance of safety. Our staff follows safety protocols of OSHA and the EPA, in addition to state and federal agencies. Contact our office or call 859-363-4863 to learn more about our safety procedures and how we can help your company.
