Every year in the United States, over 39,000 people die due to complications from asbestos exposure. But what should you do if you’ve come into contact with asbestos? When should you see a doctor, and what health risks can it pose? Let’s break it all down so you’ll know exactly how to handle this kind of situation and protect yourself.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a group of six minerals known for their soft texture, flexibility, and resistance to heat. For decades, particularly from the 1930s to the early 1980s, asbestos was widely used in building materials, insulation, and even vehicles in the U.S. Thanks to its heat-resistant properties, it was a popular choice—until its dangerous effects became more apparent.
Though the use of asbestos has declined, it hasn’t disappeared entirely. It’s still found in some consumer products in the U.S., provided it makes up less than 1% of the product’s content.
Risks and Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure, especially over a long period, can lead to serious health problems. Here are some of the early symptoms to be aware of:
– Shortness of breath
– Persistent dry coughing
– Wheezing
Over time, additional symptoms may develop, such as:
– A crackling sound when breathing
– Chest pain or tightness
– Difficulty breathing
– Fluid buildup around the lungs (pleural effusion)
Beyond respiratory issues, asbestos exposure may also impact other parts of the body. Some people experience abdominal swelling, pain, weight loss, bowel obstructions, and even clubbed fingers (enlarged fingertips due to poor blood flow and oxygen).
Moreover, asbestos exposure has been linked to chronic lung diseases like asbestosis, pleural plaques, and pleural thickening. It can even contribute to cancers, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and laryngeal cancer.
What to Do After Being Exposed to Asbestos
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, it’s critical to act quickly. Here are seven steps to help you manage the situation effectively:
1. Assess the Situation
It’s natural to feel worried after learning about the risks of asbestos. However, brief or minor exposure is not always dangerous. The severity depends on how much asbestos you were exposed to, the duration, and whether you have pre-existing lung conditions.
In many cases, a short-lived exposure won’t cause harm. But it’s always better to stay cautious and consider your next steps.
2. Wash Up Immediately
Even if the exposure was brief, wash your body thoroughly and change your clothes. Launder the clothing you wore during the exposure right away to prevent re-exposing yourself or others.
3. Pay Attention to Symptoms
After cleaning up, keep an eye on how you’re feeling. Brief exposure might not cause immediate symptoms, but if you were exposed under more severe circumstances (like an accident or explosion), you could develop a cough, chest pain, or other signs.
Track your symptoms closely and note if they change or worsen in the following days. Keeping detailed information will help your doctor evaluate the situation accurately if medical attention is needed.
4. Consult a Doctor
Reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your exposure. Provide specific details, such as how long you were exposed, the level of exposure, and any symptoms you’re experiencing.
Your doctor may advise monitoring your condition at home, but if necessary, they may conduct tests like chest X-rays or CT scans to check for lung damage or other concerns.
5. Explore Treatment Options if Needed
If your doctor identifies lung damage or other complications, they may recommend treatments like oxygen therapy to improve your breathing. They might also suggest lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, to protect your lungs from further harm.
6. Speak with a Lawyer
If your exposure to asbestos occurred in a situation where negligence might be involved—such as in a workplace or rental property—contact a lawyer. Look for one who specializes in asbestos-related cases. They can guide you on how to seek compensation for medical care, lost income, and other damages.
7. Investigate Asbestos Removal
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos in your home, arrange for professional asbestos removal to avoid further exposure. Many companies that specialize in removing substances like mold and lead also handle asbestos. You can also reach out to your local health department for recommendations on safe removal services in your area.
Wrapping Up
Now you’re better informed about asbestos, the health risks it poses, and the actions to take if you’re exposed. If you think you may need medical attention or treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified healthcare provider. Protecting your health should always be the top priority.
