Exposure to asbestos can be extremely damaging to your health. Unfortunately it is difficult to know whether you have been exposed to the dangerous substance or not. However, it is more likely that you have suffered exposure to asbestos if you have been working in a building that contains asbestos while it was being renovated.
The heath risks that asbestos exposure is linked to are numerous. Exposure can increase the risk of an otherwise healthy person developing all types of diseases. You should familiarize yourself with the diseases associated with this substance.
Asbestosis
One of the most common consequences of asbestos exposure is asbestosis. It is a condition that is caused by scar tissue that develops as a result of the inhalation of asbestos fibers. It can lead to painful and difficult breathing and an overall decreased supply of oxygen to the body.
Clubbed fingers
Some asbestosis sufferers develop clubbed fingers in addition to respiratory symptoms. This means that the fingers become deformed in some way due to the development of asbestosis. Fingers can end up misshapen and become permanently swollen.
Ovarian cancer
Although less common, ovarian cancer is a serious disease that has been linked to the presence of asbestos. It quite commonly occurs in those that have partners who have been exposed to asbestos. Some talcum powders that have been contaminated by asbestos may also be a factor.
If you or a family member has been exposed to asbestos, it is very important to know about all the consequences that it can have. There is also financial support potentially available for employees that were exposed to asbestos at work.
Source: Asbestos, “5 Diseases You Should Know Are Caused by Asbestos Exposure,” accessed Feb. 16, 2018
