Wednesday, February 10, 2010

How Asbestosis Mesothelioma Occurs And How To Cope With It

By Heidi Wingrain

Asbestosis mesothelioma affects the parenchyma tissue of the lungs and it is caused due to over exposure to asbestos particles. Hence it is a work related malady like mesothelioma cancer. The parenchymal tissues would permanently remain painful and irritable causing dyspnea or shortness of breath. Here lies enhanced chances of contracting lung cancer. Over exposure to asbestos would result in formation of plaque above the diaphragm and it can be found out in X-ray tests.

Asbestosis mesothelioma victims witness breathing difficulties as the initial symptom. Total respiratory failure may be experienced by patients who are seriously affected. Minimum ten years are required for the disease to become visible. But many cases have been reported where the illness became noticeable just after a period of three months. Amphibole and Serpentine are the two types of asbestos particles. Amphibole is thin and straight whereas serpentine is curved. It is the first one that is responsible for the disease since it can move deep into the lungs through the process of inhalation. This results in injuring lung tissues around terminal bronchioles and alveolar ducts.

The air sacs of alveoli are the place where oxygen is routed into the blood. Once the fibers reach there, they prompt the lung's innate immune system into getting swollen in order to discard the foreign body. Macrophages are released by the body to get the trespasser digested. But the problem lies in the fact that asbestos being indigestible, the macrophages die resulting in the release of cytokines. The consequence will be further release of macrophages. This extra accrual results in thickening of alveolar walls thereby decreasing elasticity and transmission of gas. Thus oxygen transfer into the blood is obstructed.

Those who are seriously affected by asbestosis mesothelioma may suffer from clubbing of fingers and inspiratory crackles. The disease may not be posing threat to life, but it can result in serious medical conditions like heart failure. Development of plaque in the chest and lung cavities is found in almost half of the patients.

Successful treatment is not available for asbestosis mesothelioma presently. But breathing problems can be alleviated by regular oxygen therapy administered at home. Respiratory physiotherapy, chest percussion, vibration and nebulization are other supportive treatments available for diluting secretions that are responsible for shortness of breath. Asbestosis mesothelioma patients can also claim compensation from their errant employers.

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