asbestosis chest x ray
What is this condition?
This lung disease is characterized by widespread filling and inflammation of the lung alveoli with asbestos fibers. It can develop as long as 15 to 20 years after being exposed to asbestos over. A powerful cocarcinogen, asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer in cigarette smokers.
What causes it?
Asbestosis is caused by the inhalation of small asbestos fibers. These fibers move in the direction of airflow and penetrate into the airways. Sources include the mining and milling of asbestos, the construction industry (where asbestos is used in a prefabricated form), and the fireproofing and textile industries. It has also been used in the production of paints, plastics, and brake automobile and clutch linings.
The asbestos-related diseases develop in families of workers as a result of exposure to fibrous dust shaken the work clothes at home. Asbestosis also strikes people who are exposed to fibrous dust or waste piles of asbestos plants close.
Inhaled fibers become trapped in a brown sheath and iron-rich protein called ferruginous bodies or asbestos bodies in sputum and lung tissue.
What are the symptoms?
The first symptom is usually shortness of breath on exertion, usually after exposure 10 years. As lung damage becomes more extensive, increasing, until finally the person is short of breath even at rest. Advanced disease also causes a cough, chest pain, recurrent respiratory infections and rapid breathing.
Asbestosis may cause complications such as heart enlargement and pulmonary hypertension. Club-shaped fingers normally occur.
How is it diagnosed?
History reveals the work of individuals, families, neighborhood or exposure to asbestos fibers. A physical examination reveals characteristic dry crackles at the bases of the lungs. A blood gas analysis revealed a decrease oxygen level and low level of carbon dioxide. Finally, a chest radiograph and pulmonary function studies help diagnose this disease.
How is it treated?
This disease can not be cured. The goal of treatment is to relieve respiratory symptoms and, in advanced disease, to manage complications.
Respiratory symptoms can be alleviated by chest physical therapy techniques such as controlled coughing. Aerosol Inhaled mucolytics, and extra fluids (at least 3 quarts [3 liters] per day) may also help relieve respiratory symptoms. Diuretics, digitalis glycoside preparations, and salt restriction may be indicated for those with cor pulmonale. Oxygen deficiency requires oxygen administration by mask or by a mechanical ventilator. Respiratory infections require early administration of antibiotics.
What Can a person with asbestosis do?
• To avoid infections, avoid crowds and people with infections and receive vaccinations for influenza and pneumococcus.
• To improve your breathing, suffer from physical reconditioning, conserve energy in daily activities, and using relaxation techniques.
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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – What is Asbestosis?
