Asbestos is a microscopic fibrous mineral that becomes a health hazard when airborne. Many homes were built with asbestos as insulation before its toxic properties were discovered. In these cases, professional asbestos abatement will be necessary. The effects of inhalation won’t surface immediately, but over time, asbestos can do a lot of damage. Here’s how fiber accumulation will harm your lungs.

5 Ways Asbestos Affects the Lungs

1. Pleural Plaque

The most common result of asbestos exposure is pleural plaque. The tissue lining beneath your lungs, called pleura, thickens and hardens. In rare cases, condensed pleura may compress a lung and appear as a mass on X-rays. Symptoms generally take 20 to 30 years to develop after exposure, so you’ll want to make sure your home undergoes asbestos abatement as soon as possible.

2. Pleural Effusion

When you inhale asbestos, fluid can build up in the space between your lungs and chest wall. This excess fluid is referred to as pleural effusion, which can result in breathing difficulties that generally develop within 10 years of exposure.

3. Mesothelioma

A rare and incurable cancer formed in the pleura, mesothelioma is an aggressive condition caused by asbestos. The intensity, duration, and latency of exposure might vary the risk of development. Additionally, with early detection, treatment, and asbestos abatement, chances of survival after diagnosis may increase.

4. Lung Cancer

Approximately 4%  of all lung cancer cases are caused by asbestos. As with mesothelioma, many factors surrounding exposure will augment the risk of developing this disease. A history of smoking tobacco also contributes to lung cancer. Most people do not show symptoms early on, but those in advanced stages may experience chronic coughing, chest pain, fever, and shortness of breath.

5. Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease characterized by inflammation and scar tissue. This prevents the lungs from functioning properly, resulting in progressive, long-term damage. While there is no cure, treatment can help alleviate breathing problems. Because it presents earlier on than other asbestos-related conditions, asbestosis indicates a high risk of developing cancer. Contact an asbestos abatement company immediately after diagnosis.

If your home is contaminated with asbestos, never try to remove it yourself. Instead, call the experts at Ohana Environmental Construction for safe and certified extraction. Serving Oahu for over 35 years, this asbestos abatement, mold remediation, and lead paint removal service will eliminate the hazardous substances plaguing your home. They offer home inspection and free estimates to help you understand the full extent of the damage. Protect your family against asbestos by calling a representative at (808) 836-6955 today. You can also learn more about their asbestos removal services online.