The asbestos fibers irritate and scar lung tissue, causing the lungs to become stiff. This makes it difficult to breathe. As asbestosis progresses, more and more lung tissue becomes scarred.
How does asbestos get into the lungs?
- This means that the asbestos material is easily crumbled by hand, thus releasing fibers into the air. People are exposed to asbestos when ACMs are disturbed or damaged, and small asbestos fibers are dispersed in the air. These fibers may get into the lungs through the air that we breathe.
Is asbestos a health risk?
- Asbestos that is in good condition and left undisturbed is unlikely to present a health risk. The risks from asbestos occur when it is damaged or disturbed where asbestos fibers become airborne and can be inhaled. Managing asbestos in place and maintaining it in good repair is often the best approach.
What is asbestos and what causes asbestos?
- Asbestosis is caused by asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral. Asbestos is resistant to chemicals, heat and electricity, and it is soft and flexible which allows it to be woven into materials. These features have made asbestos an attractive product for many industries.
What is asbestosis and what are the symptoms?
- Asbestosis may be associated with a chronic cough or bronchitis; however it does not cause asthma, emphysema, or sleep apnea. Asbestosis is a serious disease and can eventually lead to disability and death. • Lung Cancer. High and/or prolonged exposures to asbestos dusts can cause cancer in humans.
Breathing in asbestos fibres over many years eventually causes scarring of the lungs. Symptoms include: shortness of breath. persistent cough.