What are the first signs of asbestosis?
It may take five to 20 years before symptoms develop. The accumulated, inhaled asbestos fibres produce scarring (fibrosis) of the lung. The lung develops a 'honeycomb' appearance. The scar tissue, or 'fibrosis', is hard and inflexible – this makes the lungs stiffen and stops them working properly.
How quickly can asbestos affect your lungs?
Most people do not develop serious or life-threatening lung disease as a result of exposure to asbestos. However, you should always seek medical advice if you have symptoms like coughing, feeling short of breath or chest pain. Talk to your GP about: any past or present jobs with an asbestos risk.
How do I know if I've inhaled asbestos?
Most cases of lung cancer in asbestos workers occur at least 15 years after first exposure to asbestos. In workers exposed to asbestos who also smoke, the lung cancer risk is even greater than adding the risks from these exposures separately.