In an ideal world, asbestos wouldn’t even exist. It never would have been used in home construction products, and it never would have caused harm to anyone’s health.

Unfortunately, we don’t live in that ideal world. Asbestos does exist; it was once used heavily in home construction products, and it continues to harm many people throughout the world.

Generally, when asbestos harms someone, it harms their lungs, in particular. Wondering what type of danger asbestos poses to the lungs? Below, we will review who is most vulnerable to asbestos related diseases and some of the common ways in which asbestos affects the lungs.

Who is Most Prone to Asbestos?

Though being around asbestos for a short period of time can be dangerous, most of those who suffer from diseases due to asbestos do so because they were exposed to asbestos on a regular basis for many years. These individuals include everyone from factory workers, to warehouse workers, to those who live in homes that contain asbestos.

The more asbestos particles that a person breathes in, the better chance that person has of becoming harmed. Children are at an even greater risk of being harmed due to asbestos exposure, as their lungs and immune systems are not as strong as those in adults.

Lung Conditions Due to Asbestos Exposure

In the vast majority of cases, those who suffer a medical condition due to asbestos exposure have an impairment of the lungs. Here are the lung conditions that typically arise due to asbestos:

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a mild lung disease that results in shortness of breath, heavy cough, and severe discomfort within the chest. Though this disease is not deadly in and of itself, it often turns into mesothelioma or lung cancer — two diseases that are exceedingly deadly.

Pleural Effusion

Like asbestosis, pleural effusion itself is not deadly. However, it is often a precursor to deadly diseases; particularly cancer. Pleural effusion is a condition in which fluid fills the lungs on a consistent basis, producing a difficulty in breathing, an excessive cough, and mild to severe pain.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of two cancers caused by asbestos exposure. A highly fatal disease, it is accompanied by severe shortness of breath, severe coughing, and severe discomfort.

Mesothelioma

The disease that is most commonly associated with asbestos exposure is mesothelioma. A form of cancer, it affects the lining of the heart and lungs. Mesothelioma is typically fatal, with most affected individuals dying within 5 or so years.

Is It Always Necessary to Have Asbestos Removed?

The fact of the matter is that having asbestos present in your building is not always a problem. Asbestos only becomes harmful after it has been released into the air. Unfortunately, asbestos could become released into the air at any moment.

Most of the asbestos found in homes and commercial properties is built into insulation. In the event that insulation suffers damage and breaks open, the asbestos contained within it will spill out into the air. At this point, it becomes toxic.

Therefore, while it’s not necessarily vital to have your asbestos removed, having it removed would be a very wise decision. Removing asbestos is the only guaranteed way to protect yourself.

In Need of Asbestos Removal in Arlington Heights, Illinois?

Do you have asbestos in your home? Are you looking to get rid of it? In need of asbestos removal in Arlington Heights? Axis Response Group has you covered.

Our team of seasoned asbestos abatement specialists is well-versed in the testing, treatment, and removal of asbestos-laden products. We can create a safe environment within your home or commercial property in just a short time.

Contact us today to discuss your needs!