Exposure to asbestos can cause a host of unpleasant symptoms. The naturally occurring mineral fibers were long used in manufacturing and construction industries to create everything from wall insulation to vinyl tiles. Asbestos usage is strongly regulated, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a rule in 2019 that increased its license to perform more stringent reviews of anything that contains the material before it’s sold in America. But if you live in a home that was constructed before the 1970s and you’re concerned about exposure, be mindful of these signs.

How to Tell If You’re Affected By Asbestos Exposure

1. Respiratory Concerns

Inhaling asbestos for extended periods can cause a serious problem known as pleural thickening. This is a serious lung disease that develops over time as the membranes lining the lungs develop scar tissue. The more advanced the growth, the more difficult it is for the lungs to breathe air to full capacity. There are no initial symptoms; people may develop shortness of breath and chest pain eventually. These are common signs of both asbestosis, an inflammatory lung disease, and mesothelioma, cancer of the tissue that covers internal organs.

2. Skin Problems

Making direct contact with asbestos fibers can cause an adverse skin reaction. Common signs of a problem include itching, redness, rashes, burning, and overall irritation. Pain or tingling may also be present. Asbestos fibers generally don’t move through the skin directly into the body, however.

3. Weight Loss

Unintended weight loss may be a side effect of exposure to asbestos, especially when coupled with a loss of appetite and overall fatigue. Like other symptoms, this issue is likely to develop over time as the lining thickens. In cases of mesothelioma, the stomach is sometimes unable to expand effectively to assist in the digestive process. Associated surgical procedures can also cause excess scar tissue that makes it difficult to digest food properly. Asbestosis can also cause weight loss.

Are you worried that your home contains asbestos? Get in touch with the team at Action Asbestos Removal in Montville, CT. Committed to resolving the problem, they’ve served homeowners throughout the area since 1992. From the initial asbestos consultation to complete asbestos removal and disposal, they handle every step of the process to ensure that your property is free of the contaminant. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call them at (860) 848-2912.