What
are the treatments for asbestos-related diseases?
The key to successful treatment of asbestos-related diseases
lies in early detection. The health problems caused by asbestosis
are due mainly to lung infections, like pneumonia, that attack
weakened lungs. Early medical attention and prompt, aggressive
treatment offer the best chance of success in controlling
such infections. Depending on the situation, doctors may give
a vaccine against influenza or pneumococcal pneumonia as a
protective measure.
Prevention
Early screening by chest X-ray of people who are exposed to
asbestos.
Symptoms
As noted earlier, the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases
may not become apparent for many decades after exposure. If
any of the following symptoms develop, a physical examination
should be scheduled without delay:
• Shortness of breath;
• A cough or a change in cough pattern;
• Blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up from the lungs;
• Pain in the chest or abdomen;
• Difficulty in swallowing or prolonged hoarseness;
and/or
• Significant weight loss
• Nail abnormalities or clubbing of fingers may occur.
Signs and tests:
Listening to the chest with a stethoscope (auscultation) reveals
a crackling sound.
These tests also help diagnose the disease:
• a chest X-ray
• pulmonary function tests
• a CT scan of the lungs
This disease may also alter the results
of the following test:
• ACE levels
Treatment:
There is no cure available. Stopping further exposure to asbestos
is indicated. Supportive treatment of symptoms includes respiratory
treatments to remove secretions from the lungs by postural
drainage, chest percussion, and vibration. Aerosol medications
to thin secretions may be prescribed. Oxygen by mask or by
a plastic piece that fits into the nostrils (cannula) may
be needed.
Reference: www.healthcentral.com
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